Face Recognition is a biometric technology used for recognizing human faces by mapping features of a face from photographs & videos. It then compares the captured faces to the facial information in the given database to find a match. Facial Recognition technology is commonly used to perform Identity verification.
The face recognition market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 14%. Facial recognition has many commercial applications such as surveillance and even marketing. A face identification system simply requires any device that has a camera to obtain images and can record the biometric facial pattern of the person.
Here’s a step-by-step methodology to understand the working of Facial Recognition Technology:
Step 1 - Primarily, the face of the person to be identified is captured using a camera, this captured facial data can either be a photo or a video. Under ideal circumstances, the face capture takes place in close proximity and by looking directly into the camera or webcam.
Step 2 - Face Recognition maps the face of the person, and registers its geometrical structure. These mapping coordinates can be the distance between eyes, forehead and chin, and many others. It identifies the facial landmarks and makes the distinction based on the landmarks.
Step 3 - All these landmarks, distances and mapping coordinates are part of the facial signature. Every Facial signature is unique and it all formulates into a mathematical function, which is then compared to the faces provided in the database.
Step 4 - After the facial signature matches with the face in the database, the recognition is successfully performed, and the person is identified.
With artificial intelligence and machine learning, face recognition can become much smarter and more efficient. By integrating advanced algorithms and computing techniques, the process can now be carried out in real-time.
Video analytics uses CCTV cameras to analyse and detect incidents in real time. This technology uses video footage coming live from surveillance cameras to carry out specific tasks such as identifying moving objects and reading vehicle number plates. When artificial intelligence is combined with this technology then it is commonly referred to as intelligent video analytics.
Video analytics solution is used to eradicate the manual job of watching hours of CCTV footage in search of potential threats, such as intruders, and shoplifters. Previously, Video surveillance was used by many industries and now they are shifting towards a much more popular technology of video analytics. It can help security managers to identify incidents on premises.
Video Analytics technology is becoming smarter and better with the integration of AI. There is a substantial increase in the pixel-per-meter quality of new versions of IP cameras that organizations currently use. All these factors lead to the enablement of Face Recognition technology by CCTV cameras.
AI algorithms help detect the face of the people and keep tracking it on the frame until the recognition model runs and performs successful recognition. With the assistance of advanced AI technology, face recognition thus takes less delay time and can be performed at a distance of up to 10 meters. Even side/tilt face recognition can be performed using AI Video Analytics technology.
The National Institute of Standards and Technology is an organization that tests the accuracy and functionality of various security-related applications and devices. According to a 2020 test result, the best face recognition algorithms showed a minimal error rate of just 0.08%.
The accuracy of Face Recognition solutions can give greater than 99% accuracy if it is provided with static images, such as passport photos or mugshots. Similarly, if the face is at a very close distance to the camera and is aligned with it, the recognition results are noteworthy.
Although in real-world scenarios, accuracy rates are usually lower and error rates are between 0.1% to 9%, because of low-quality images, and non-ideal circumstances i.e. facing sideways, upwards or downwards, even in low-light areas. Ageing can also play a major barrier to Facial Recognition technology.
Below given are some of the most common use cases of Face Recognition technology:
Government authorities can utilize Facial recognition systems to monitor tourists and people coming and going in airports. This technology identifies people who have overstayed their visa duration or may be under criminal investigation.
Smartphone Manufacturing companies are implementing face recognition technology in their newly launched mobile phones. It is used for face authentication/unlocking for security purposes and makes sure that no one has access to the private files on your phone.
Schools and colleges can adopt this technology to take attendance of students with a biometric system. Similarly, examination pre-checkups can be performed using webcams or installed cameras on premises using facial recognition technology.
Many websites such as Banking & Finance use face recognition technology to verify people for eKYC. Similarly, Facebook, Instagram & Twitter use this technology when you need to tag people in posts and stories.
Many Medium and Large scale enterprises use face recognition technology to regulate access on office premises. Similarly, it can be used for tracking employees and visitors using CCTV camera-based Face Recognition.
Retailers can leverage video analytics-based face recognition to scan the faces of shoppers for any potential shoplifters or suspects. Similarly, they can also keep track of premium customers coming into the shop and attend to their needs.
Finding Missing People: Law enforcement agencies are able to track missing children and disoriented adults using face recognition.
Identifying criminals: Law enforcement also uses face recognition solutions to identify criminals and suspects using locally established cameras.
Safer Flights: Airports are implementing facial recognition technology to identify suspects and potential threats as they enter airports or while they are boarding flights.
Efficient Shopping: Retailers can use facial recognition solutions for the attendance of their employees and check if there is no shoplifting involved. It can also be used to make it easier for consumers to check out, as they won’t need to stay in queues for purchasing goods and products.
Privacy Concerns: Facial recognition technology arises a lot of questions concerning the privacy of individuals. Law enforcement, government agencies, and many retail chains have facial signatures registered on their database, which can be problematic for many people.
Mistaken Identity: Sometimes, criminal identification solutions recognize regular civilians as potential suspects and law enforcement agencies take these pedestrians into custody for further questioning.
Unreliable Systems: Facial recognition can be tricked by wearing masks or facial disguises. This could lessen the effectiveness of the solution and can be considered unreliable in cardinal situations.
Ageing Factor: People’s face change as they age and in about 7 years or so, the database of faces has to be revamped. If not so, then people change their appearances such as facial surgery, makeovers, dyeing of hair and even piercing. All these factors can make it difficult for facial recognition systems to carry out their basic functions.
Face Recognition technology has been around for a while now and many companies are implementing it in their security systems. It vastly reduces the chances of any workplace incidents relating to theft, unauthorized access and many more.
Daten & Wissen provides quality-built AI systems and software to businesses around the globe. Our team is constantly working to produce newer & better technologies, Face Recognition technology is one of the many solutions we provide. If you are looking to apply this advanced technology in your business then feel free to contact us.
Q: What is Face Recognition technology?
A: Face recognition is a technology that is used for recognizing human faces through any sort of camera.
Q: How does Face Recognition work?
A: A facial recognition system uses advanced biometrics technology to recognize facial features from a photograph or video by mapping it. The captured face is compared with the face provided in the database.
Q: Does the Face Recognition solution work with a mask?
A: It is difficult to recognize people’s faces if they are covered, especially by masks worn during the Covid-19 Pandemic. Companies are working hard to achieve it and many results show improvements with recognition technology.
Q: What is the Face Recognition solution used for?
A: Facial recognition can be used for the following:
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Daten & Wissen is the team of expert AI engineers to help your business to embark on a transformational journey with the adoption of this futuristic technology.
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