The Orlando Police Department revealed that it has been using Amazon’s Rekognition software and its Kineses Video Streams for image analysis and real-time videos.

Both software implements artificial intelligence (AI) technology to “identify the objects, people, text, scenes and activities, as well as detect any inappropriate content,” according to Amazon’s website.

Rekognition software is used to provide “highly accurate facial analysis and facial recognition”, and can recognise up to 100 people in a single image, using a private repository of images.

Keeping Orlando residents safe

Orlando is part of a public-private partnership with Amazon and is using the technology in an investigative capacity or in any public spaces.

The idea of Orlando’s Police Department using Amazon’s programmes is to help address any concerns that arise and to look for new solutions to further its ability to keep Orlando residents and visitors safe.

Nevertheless, The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) is urging against the use of the software as it believes it raises “profound civil liberties and civil rights concerns”.

ACLU is also urging Amazon to stop marketing Rekognition to governments.

Written by Leah Alger