Revolut Tests Facial Recognition Payments at UK Coffee Shops

WHO:

Engadget - Revolut Ltd. is the organization piloting the facial recognition system.

Techmeme - The UK coffee chain involved in the pilot is Kiss the Hippo.

WHAT:

Engadget - Revolut is trialing a new facial recognition system at store checkouts.

Techmeme - The new point-of-sale system allows customers to make in-store payments using their faces.

WHERE:

Engadget - The pilot is taking place in the UK.

Techmeme - The specific location for the pilot is at Kiss the Hippo coffee shops in the UK.

WHEN:

Techmeme - A full launch of the facial recognition payment system is planned for later this year.

WHY:

Engadget - The facial recognition system could provide convenience for customers but may also be controversial.

HOW:

Techmeme - The system is a point-of-sale (POS) technology that utilizes facial recognition for processing payments.

(UPDATED September 24, 2026 11:02 UTC)

Revolut Ltd. is piloting a new facial recognition payment system at Kiss the Hippo coffee shops in the UK, allowing customers to make in-store payments using their faces. This innovative point-of-sale technology aims to enhance convenience for shoppers, although it may spark some controversy. A full launch of the facial recognition payment system is planned for later this year.