Huawei’s Atlas computing platform analyzes video clips from 20,000 cameras in real time for Shenzen. The “traffic brain” “can search for photos from its library of 1 billion photos in just seconds and analyze the video clips provided by more than 20,000 cameras in real time. It has boosted road capacity in Shenzhen by around 8%” Huawei annual report.
It has also “resulted in a tenfold increase in law enforcement efficiency.” Many security agencies around the world – not just in China – are likely fascinated by the potential.
Shenzhen already has some traffic cameras networked for a similar purpose. What Huawei brings to the table in an AI system capable of supporting 20,000 cameras.
I have no details of how many servers are being used. Probably a large number but the computers will keep getting better.
Facial recognition is no longer science fiction. In 2017, WSJ reported, “Facial-recognition systems crunch data from ubiquitous cameras to monitor citizens [in China.]” The cameras were being used to catch jaywalkers.
Anyone who watches British police TV shows knows cameras are almost everywhere in England. In Shenzhen, Huawei claims rush hour congestion is reduced by 8% and in one district 17%.
Facial recognition still is not perfect. Sophos reports, “Facial recognition traffic camera mistakes bus for a famous woman.” The bus had a poster with a picture of Dong Mingzhu and the system thought the bus was her – jaywalking.
How does it work? The traffic computer can extend a green light if no cars are coming on the cross street and make other changes based on the traffic pattern. The system can also provide all green lights for an emergency ambulance.
You can easily project how China and other governments will use a system like this.
From Huawei: “In the intelligent computing domain, Huawei launched its Atlas intelligent computing platform, an all scenario AI solution that provides superior computing power to meet customer expectations. This platform features cloud-edge synergy and all-scenario coverage and supports integrated solution delivery. We have partnered with the Shenzhen Traffic Police to build an intelligent “traffic brain”, which can search for photos from its library of 1 billion photos in just seconds and analyze the video clips provided by more than 20,000 cameras in real time. The ‘traffic brain’ has boosted road capacity in Shenzhen by around 8% and resulted in a tenfold increase in law enforcement efficiency, redefining traffic management with intelligent technologies.”