Facial recognition

Facial recognition is a type of biometric software that is able to identify or verify a person based on a digital image, by accurately analyzing human features. It does not perceive the face of an individual, but only the multitude of adjacent pixels that form the digital image.

Facial recognition technology uses learning algorithms to compare images to identify an individual's identity. Basically, this technology can be compared to other similar identification technologies, such as fingerprinting, retinal scanning or voice recognition.

Facial recognition technology compares different specific features of the face and creates a pattern of about 80 nodal points of the face, in the form of a numerical code. These features can be the mandible, the shape of the cheeks, the distance between the eyes, the size of the nose, etc. All these measurements are stored by the system in a database and then compared with the face of the person standing in front of the camera to confirm identity.

When facial recognition appeared

Pioneers of facial recognition technology are researchers Woody Bledsoe, Helen Chan Wolf and Charles Bisson. Between 1964 and 1965, they developed a technology that allowed a computer to recognize people's faces.

Subsequently, at the beginning of the 21st century, holistic facial recognition technology was developed. Although initially considered an important step in the development of this technology, today it can be considered a rudimentary tool compared to current technologies. However, many of today's technologies rely on the features of holistic facial recognition, which used 2D technology.

Starting with 2D holistic facial recognition, other much more advanced and sophisticated technologies have been gradually developed, which are based on the analysis of unique features.