Tech start-ups push to make China’s facial recognition systems part of daily life across Asia
SenseTime, the world’s most valuable artificial intelligence start-up, joins Megvii and Yitu Technology in establishing a beachhead for Chinese-developed facial recognition applications in major Southeast Asian markets
China’s goal to become a global leader in artificial intelligence (AI) can be seen in the efforts of some of its leading start-ups in facial recognition technology to deploy their applications in overseas markets.
Innovative systems created by facial recognition specialists in the world’s second largest economy are already seeing increased demand in major countries across Southeast Asia.
SenseTime Group, the world’s most valuable AI start-up, recently joined the likes of Megvii and Yitu Technology in making inroads in the region, which consists of 11 countries with a total population of 653.4 million, about 49 per cent of which live in urban areas, according to the latest United Nations estimates.
On Friday, SenseTime signed separate deals with Singapore Telecommunications (Singtel), Nanyang Technological University and the National Supercomputing Centre in Singapore to do advanced research and develop AI-based solutions in the country and the other member-economies of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean), according to a statement from the start-up, which is known for providing AI-powered surveillance software for China’s police.
“As Singapore serves as SenseTime’s international hub, we’re committed to building an AI ecosystem with our local partners and servicing customers with leading AI technologies,” said Martin Huang, SenseTime’s managing director in the city state. “We look forward to promoting the development of AI in the Asean region.”
