Google is Giving Away $5 Gift Cards in Exchange Face Data

There's been a lot of talk about face data lately, and now Google has found an innovative new method of collecting face data from consumers; by offering gift cards. 

ZDNet reports that Google is sending out several teams to cities to offer consumers a $5 gift cards in exchange for their face data consumers by using a modified smartphone. The team members approach pedestrians and explain they are collecting face data for Google to, in their words, "improve the next generation of facial recognition phone unlocking." If you decide to help out, then you are handed a smartphone in a large case. You will be instructed to move the phone around in selfie mode so that it can see all angles of your face. 

After the data has been collected, you sign a waiver and receive a $5 gift card, which can be redeemed at Starbucks or Amazon. For those who value their privacy, be aware that signing the waiver allows Google to use the face data collected in whatever way they want. 

If you're wondering why Google wants the information, all signs point to Google's Pixel 4. It's expected that the Pixel 4 will feature a face authentication system like the one used Apple iPhones with the Face ID system. These systems require training, and that training requires lots of different faces. Google has got the idea that going to public places with gift cards and phones is the easiest way to get new face data for their training programs. It seems like their plan is working as well. 

The latest leak of the Pixel 4 was for screen protectors that seemed to feature a new cutout that may be for the Google Soli chip. The Soli chip allows for touchless interactions. The protector also features two more cutouts for cameras, which would support a Face ID-style system. 

The Pixel 4 is due to be released in October, meaning that Google still has some time left to train its facial recognition system. That's going to take a lot of information, which is going to take a lot of gift cards. Google may end up being Amazon's and Starbuck's best customers this year.