Flock Exposes Its AI-Enabled Surveillance Cameras (www.schneier.com)

Flock has unveiled its new Condor surveillance cameras, which utilize advanced AI technology to function as pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) devices focused on tracking individuals rather than vehicles. Unlike Flock's traditional cameras that capture license plates, Condor cameras can autonomously zoom in on people's faces in various public spaces, such as parking lots and playgrounds, or can be controlled manually. This capability was demonstrated in real-time instances, where the cameras effectively followed and recorded individuals engaging in everyday activities, highlighting their ability to deliver high-resolution video footage. The significance of this development lies in the expanded surveillance capabilities being introduced to public spaces, raising concerns and discussions within the AI/ML community regarding privacy and ethical implications. As these AI-enabled cameras become more prevalent, they may lead to increased scrutiny over data privacy and the potential for misuse, prompting a reevaluation of surveillance practices. The technical detail that the Condor cameras provide high-resolution video tracking showcases the advancements in AI recognition technologies, which may have widespread implications for urban surveillance and law enforcement practices.