Inhibitors to the adoption of facial recognition payments

Abstract

Facial Recognition Payment Services (FRPS) are increasing in popularity globally, largely due to the convenience of the innovation. Existing literature has explored general consumer adoption of FRPS and resistance primarily relating to the privacy concerns the service introduces. This quantitative study explored potential inhibitors evident in consumers relating to the Use Intention (UI) and Intention to Recommend (ITR) as a payment service using Innovation Resistance Theory (IRT) as the core framework. Elements of the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) and Status Quo Bias (SQB) theory were used to formulate the conceptual model. The study utilised an online survey to collect 303 consumer responses through a non-probability, snowball sampling methodology. Smart-PLS was then used to conduct Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) on the collected data. The research found that Usage, Risk, and Image Barriers are significant predictors of inhibition of Use Intention whilst Inertia and Mistrust significantly impede a consumer’s intention to recommend FRPS. It was further noted that Desirability did display signs of moderation within the model.