In Singapore, authorities have begun using an artificial intelligence system named Balefire, version 3.0, to detect individuals smoking. This system, particularly in areas where smoking is prohibited, observes individuals smoking. When Balefire detects a person smoking, it notifies local legal authorities in real-time, enabling quick intervention.
Singapore detects smokers using artificial intelligence
According to Pye Sone Kyaw, the developer of Balefire, this artificial intelligence system was created to detect individuals smoking in areas where smoking is banned. Places where smoking is prohibited typically include indoor spaces, parks, educational institutions, swimming pools, and even pedestrian bridges.
Fines of up to 148 dollars can be imposed for smoking in the wrong places, and in case of litigation, this amount can increase fivefold. One of the challenges the artificial intelligence system faces is accurately detecting small objects like cigarettes from a distance.
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Balefire can continuously track individuals by focusing on their head features for more effective detection. The system continually improves itself to minimize false alarms, and developers are trying to increase accuracy by manually adding different scenarios, such as individuals wearing helmets or eating, into the system.
Will this system come to Turkey?
The arrival of artificial intelligence-based surveillance systems like Balefire in Turkey is closely related to Turkey’s technological capabilities, legal regulations, and public policies. If Turkey is willing and prepared to invest in similar technologies to support public health and legal regulations, it is possible to think that such systems can be implemented in Turkey.
However, this is not only a technological matter but also requires a complex decision-making process involving ethical, legal, and social factors. The aspect of this technology interfering with people’s private lives may be a matter of debate in Europe, as there is a principle in Europe that the depth of investigation measures must be proportional to the severity of the violation.
Do you think the imposition of fines on smokers using artificial intelligence can lead to new debates on privacy and surveillance? You can write your opinions in the comments section below.
