Recently, smart vending machines equipped with facial recognition technology caused a stir on a college campus. The machines were removed after reports of the technology surfaced. While the use of facial recognition in vending machines may seem uncommon, experts suggest that it is becoming more widespread.
According to Chris Russell, a professor at the Oxford Internet Institute, facial recognition technology is becoming cheaper and more popular. He believes that it will continue to become more common in various systems. In the case of the vending machines on the college campus, it appeared that the facial recognition capabilities were not actively being used.
One of the main purposes of implementing facial recognition technology in vending machines is for advertising. Companies can personalize ads for specific demographics and target them to customers as they approach the screen. While some may have concerns about privacy, companies claim that they are using the technology in compliance with privacy regulations.
However, there are potential risks associated with using facial recognition in vending machines. If malicious actors were able to access the technology, they could potentially use the machines as surveillance devices. This could pose a threat to individuals' privacy, especially in sensitive locations like hospitals or abortion clinics.
Overall, while the use of facial recognition technology in vending machines may have benefits for advertising and convenience, there are also serious risks to consider. As the technology becomes more common, it is important for companies to prioritize data security and privacy to protect consumers from potential misuse of the technology.