Hong Kong to deploy facial recognition across public CCTVs as early as 2026
A major global city is rolling out mass biometric surveillance this year.
Deep Dive
Hong Kong's police chief announced plans to integrate facial recognition technology into public CCTV cameras as early as this year. The system, called SmartView, will first link cameras in high-traffic shopping centers. While legal and technical hurdles remain, Commissioner Joe Chow stated the force is working on public acceptance and a legal framework, aiming for deployment in 2026 or 2027, with public notification before activation.
Why It Matters
This represents one of the world's most extensive public facial recognition rollouts, setting a major precedent for urban surveillance and privacy.