Google already has face recognition in its new Samsung Galaxy Nexus smartphone, and now a new Apple patent has been revealed which could mean that Apple is planning to add face recognition to future iOS devices.
The latest Apple patent was discovered by Patently Apple, and you can see below a diagram of the patent which describes how Apple’s face recognition would work.
The patent application was filed back in 2010, but it has only recently been revealed, so who knows we could possibly see face recognition in Apple’s new iOS devices next year.
How Face Recognition Technology Works
Face recognition technology works by capturing an image of a user’s face and then analyzing various features such as the distance between the eyes, the shape of the cheekbones, and the contour of the lips. This data is then converted into a digital format and stored in a database. When the user attempts to unlock their device, the system captures a new image and compares it to the stored data. If the two images match, the device is unlocked.
Apple’s patent describes a sophisticated system that not only recognizes faces but also detects the presence of a face in the vicinity of the device. This could potentially enhance security by ensuring that the device only activates when it detects a human face, thereby preventing unauthorized access.
Potential Applications and Benefits
The integration of face recognition technology into iOS devices could offer numerous benefits. For one, it could significantly enhance the security of these devices. Unlike passwords or PIN codes, which can be forgotten or stolen, face recognition provides a more secure and convenient method of authentication. This could be particularly useful for users who store sensitive information on their devices, such as financial data or personal documents.
Moreover, face recognition could also be used for other applications beyond unlocking the device. For example, it could be used to authenticate payments, access secure apps, or even personalize the user experience. Imagine a device that adjusts its settings based on who is using it, offering a customized experience for each user.
Another potential application is in the realm of augmented reality (AR). With face recognition, AR apps could create more realistic and interactive experiences by accurately tracking the user’s facial movements and expressions. This could open up new possibilities for gaming, virtual meetings, and other applications.
Apple has a history of integrating advanced technologies into its devices, and face recognition could be the next step in this evolution. Given the company’s focus on user privacy and security, it is likely that any face recognition system they develop will include robust safeguards to protect user data.
Source Wired
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