Cash or Card? Neither! I'll Use My Hand!

Lugging around purses and wallets filled with cash and heavy coins was the norm in the early 1900s. Then, with the invention of credit cards in 1958, the usage of cash slowly declined. Today, credit cards, mobile payments, and other payment methods are prevalent, but the trend toward the smallest and least inconvenient option possible continues. What could be more convenient than simply paying with just ourselves?

Amazon recently announced its partnership with Panera Bread to bring its Amazon One palm scanning technology to the first restaurant in the United States. Amazon One released this new feature in 2020 at its Seattle stores. This technology allows users to connect their palm scan to their credit card. The partnership with Panera Bread will grant Panera's loyalty members this option as well.

On the surface, Amazon One's palm scanning technology appears to offer convenience and security benefits. Users would no longer need to carry cash, credit cards, or even smartphones. All they would need would be their own palms. The technology uses a unique palm signature that is reportedly more difficult to forge than traditional payment methods. This could provide additional security and reduce the risk of fraud.

However, the technology also raises concerns about privacy and surveillance. Critics argue that palm scanning technology could be used to track individuals' movements and purchases. There are also concerns that this data could be used for targeted advertising or sold to third parties. To address these concerns, Amazon has stated that it will encrypt and store the palm scans in a secure cloud. Additionally, users can delete their palm scan at any time.

The partnership between Amazon and Panera Bread is an example of a growing trend toward palm scanning payments. Disney World and Whole Foods are also experimenting with this technology. While some restaurants and stores have faced community backlash for implementing palm scanning, others continue to move forward with their plans.

Overall, the adoption of palm scanning technology raises important questions about privacy, security, and convenience. As companies continue to experiment with this technology, it is important to consider the potential benefits and drawbacks, while addressing any concerns raised by users and privacy advocates.