Eye spy: NYPD testing how Google Glass can be used with facial recognition software

The NYPD obtained two pairs of Google Glass to see how it can be incorporated in its existing technology-including its facial recognition programs.

BY ROCCO PARASCANDOLA AND THOMAS TRACY
The NYPD wants to use Google Glass on patrol — just not in the way its creators intended.
The department is testing to see how facial recognition software in the glasses-like minicomputer can be used, but the tech giant said it can’t condone the practice, citing “social etiquette” issues.

"As our Glass Developer Policies make clear, we will not be approving any Facial Recognition Glassware,” a company spokesman told the News. “As a result, no facial recognition Glassware will be available or distributed in our MyGlass store.”
“We listened to the broader consumer public and they made it clear that (facial recognition) is something they're not comfortable with,” the spokesman added.
Google Glass could help match suspects' names and faces to information contained in databases that law enforcement agencies use, such as those from the National Crime Information Center. An investigator could potentially pull up a mug shot or rap sheet information while interviewing a person.
The glasses aren't yet in circulation and are available only through Google's Glass Explorer program, which requires interested parties to apply to try out the new tool. Google can either accept or deny an application. Users must pay $1,500 for access to the technology.
Google decided against incorporating facial recognition software into its product after receiving feedback from users in its Explorer Program
“(We heard about) what things work, what things don't, not only on the hardware and software side, but on the social etiquette side as well,” the spokesman said.
NYPD Police Commissioner Bill Bratton said facial recognition was one of a “variety of circumstances” where Google Glass would “be most useful.”
"The department is making great advances, as is the profession, as is society, in facial recognition technology,” he said. “I think we've only seen the tip of the iceberg in terms of its full benefit."
Two pairs of Google Glass were obtained by the NYPD for testing in December, NYPD spokesman Stephen Davis explained.
“The devices have not been deployed in any actual field or patrol operations, but rather are being assessed as to how they may be appropriately utilized or incorporated into any existing technology-based functions,” Davis said.