Apple's New Patent Uses Body Data for Advanced ID Without Facial Recognitio

Published Date : 28/11/2024 

Apple has been granted a patent for a technology that combines facial recognition with body characteristics, enabling cameras to identify people even when their faces are not visible. This advanced system is expected to enhance security in various environments, from homes to public places. 

Apple has been granted a patent for “identity recognition utilizing face-associated body characteristics.” This innovative technology is anticipated to feature in a forthcoming smart security product from the tech giant.

The patent, numbered 12154386 2B, was filed in May 2022 and granted on November 26, 2024.

The patent clearly outlines a system that associates facial recognition with other body characteristics, such as clothing, gait, or gestures.

This approach aims to recognize individuals even when their faces are not visible to the camera.

The main problem this technology addresses is the inability of video cameras to perform facial recognition in certain scenarios.

The system works by monitoring video feeds and analyzing video frames along with previously stored face and body biometrics.

It determines whether an identification can be made using a primary body characteristic (face) or if it requires a secondary characteristic.

The process involves linking a gallery of “body croppings” such as the torso, arms, or legs with face biometrics, and then comparing this data with a live video feed.

The system proceeds in a step-by-step approach it first identifies the face, then the body parts, and if needed, “physical characteristics” like body shape, skin color, or the texture and color of clothing.

The order of operations can be adapted based on the specific scenario.

The resulting data forms a cluster of “bodyprints,” which can be assigned a confidence score against a person’s faceprint and other characteristics.

One of the key features of this technology is its adaptability.

For instance, since certain identifiers like clothing have a limited useful time, the technology can utilize storage periods as brief as 24 hours.

This ensures that the system remains up-to-date and accurate.

The implications of this technology are significant.

It could lead to smart camera systems that recognize family members and other individuals, even when their faces are not visible.

For example, the system could re-register a person’s clothes in the morning and still recognize them on their way home, thanks to the knowledge of their unique Hawaiian shirt.

However, Apple’s vision for this technology extends beyond the home environment.

According to the patent, the system could be applied in “any suitable environment, such as an office building, a warehouse, a parking lot, a public park, etc.” This broad application highlights the potential of the technology in various security and identification scenarios.

While it's important to note that Apple patents many technologies that never make it to market, the growing interest in AI and facial authentication in sectors like law enforcement, border control, intelligence, access management, credentialing, and event security makes this patent particularly noteworthy.

The potential for a smart AI camera that can perform broad identity recognition is a compelling proposition in an increasingly security-conscious world. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS):

Q: What is the main purpose of Apple's new patent?

A: The main purpose of Apple's new patent is to enhance identity recognition by combining facial recognition with other body characteristics, such as clothing, gait, or gestures. This allows cameras to identify individuals even when their faces are not visible.

Q: How does the system work?

A: The system works by monitoring video feeds, analyzing video frames, and comparing them with previously stored face and body biometrics. It identifies the face first, then the body parts, and if needed, other physical characteristics like body shape, skin color, or clothing texture.

Q: Can the technology be used outside of home environments?

A: Yes, the technology is not limited to home environments. It can be applied in various settings such as office buildings, warehouses, parking lots, and public parks.

Q: How does the system ensure accuracy over time?

A: The system ensures accuracy by using storage periods as brief as 24 hours for certain identifiers like clothing. This keeps the data up-to-date and relevant, enhancing the system's ability to recognize individuals accurately.

Q: What are the potential applications of this technology?

A: The potential applications of this technology include security and identification in various sectors such as law enforcement, border control, intelligence, access management, credentialing, and event security. 

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