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A few months ago, I wrote about how the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) was looking to force CLEAR to make all enrolled travelers have to show ID at security checkpoints. This was caused by several security incidents and made me question the value of the service if its prime benefit was being made more complicated. The TSA did not go forward with these mandatory ID checks, but it looks like CLEAR is working behind the scenes to make security even stronger without the need to scan your eyes or fingerprints.
What is NextGen Identity+?
According to CLEAR, its NextGen Identity+ provides an even more predictable, friction-free experience. CLEAR Plus Members will receive a free upgrade to NextGen Identity+ and only need to verify their phone numbers online (and then finish the process at a CLEAR Enrollment Center at the airport). This new process will eliminate the need for members to stop at a kiosk (known as a CLEAR Pod) when going through airport security. The upgrade is mandatory and once complete it promises a faster and more secure experience in 2024.
A CLEAR spokesperson shared:
[This] will allow Clear Plus members to verify their identity with their face (instead of iris or fingerprints), eliminating the need for members to stop at a Clear Pod and seamlessly integrating into TSA equipment for friction-free entry into physical screening.”
As I reported earlier today, CLEAR is now available at 55 US airports. There are around 19 million members nationwide. Reserve powered by Clear (more here), allows travelers to book timed entry through TSA security based on flight departure time. It’s processed over five million reservations and is currently available at 20 airports across the United States, Canada, and Europe. An annual membership to Clear costs $189 annually, but some credit cards and airline elite status levels cover the cost.
Anthony’s Take: If this speeds up CLEAR, I’m all for it. I have gotten so many manual identity checks and the lines in some airports have gotten lengthy at times. I’ll report back on my experience upgrading to NextGen Identity+.
(Image Credits: CLEAR.)
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