Understanding Facial Recognition and Its Applications

Today, the world is flooded with big data sets. However, the overabundance of data available in terms of photos and videos make facial recognition technology work. A facial recognition system analyzes the visual data and millions of images and videos generated by CCTV cameras installed in modern-day cities for security.

So, What Actually is Facial Recognition?

Facial recognition is a technology that is able to identify or validate a human face through an image, video or any audio-visual system. This identification technology leverages biometric software to recognize an individual's facial features.

Applications of Facial Recognition 

Today, facial recognition is being used to make the world safer, smarter and more convenient.

Airports: Airport authorities use facial recognition at security check-ins for international flights.

Payment Methods: Facial recognition system has become indispensable in payments, enabling contactless payment methods by scanning an individual's biometric features.

Healthcare: Facial recognition helps in the patient check-in process, real-time emotion detection, patient tracking, diagnosis of certain diseases or conditions, staff identification and facilities security.

Retail: In the retail sector, facial recognition helps to customize the shopping experience, lessens shoplifting, enables employees to deliver better customer service, and improves security within a retail store.

Education: A facial recognition system can improve the student experience by enabling institutions to monitor student attendance and behavior. It can bolster learning engagement and security.

Who are the frontrunners?

Major tech firms around the world are developing advanced facial recognition technology. Especially, tech giants in the US, Russia, China, Japan, Israel and Europe are leading the way.

• China has installed millions of cameras in the country which are connected to facial recognition software.
• Russia has announced that it will expand its own surveillance network.
• In Europe and other developed nations, facial recognition has found its way into shops to spot thieves and into business to monitor staff and visitors.
• In the US, Police officials use the technology to search CCTV footage for suspects.