The flash drive holds 4GB of memory—though larger capacity models are planned—and employs 256-bit AES encryption. To use, you register several pictures of your face, which will then be checked against what your web cam sees to confirm that you're the owner. The entire process takes about one second.

The drive is about 98% accurate, with a backup password authentication system for that other 2% of the time. Surprisingly enough, there's also no need to download or install any additional software. Lockface also looks like it could double as a bottle opener, but it's probably too small and expensive for that at 22×4×55mm and $110. Currently only available in Japan. [Excite News (translated) via Crunch Gear]

Model CVJB-G107 features dual cameras (creating a 3D image that prevents false matches using a simple 2D photograph) , night vision, a 3.5 inch TFT display screen, touch keypad, USB and Ethernet port for TCP/IP connections, the ability to register up to 500 faces, and a verification process that supposedly takes less than a second. Using all of this it can store up to 150,000 attendance records of employees, as well as determine which of your relatives are allowed to attend the holiday party this year. [Chinavision via TRFJ]

Sony Labs has been researching this technology for a while. I think most people are familiar with it from Smile Shutter in the Sony CyberShot, and autofocus with face detection. But now, we've migrated this technology to PS3, and made it available as an SDK.

Through its various points of detection, the system can recognize individual faces and overlay a different model for each person. And that's where things get a little more interesting. Aside from augmented-reality uses, Sony imagines the tech being used to generate virtual world avatars on the fly...[DigInfo]

Says Sony Europe's Head of Developer Services, Kish Hirani, the Eye will have the ability to "detect gender and even the age of the face, separate facial features such as the nose, eyes and ears, and even detect whether you're smiling or not."

And taking a page from Microsoft's Natal platform, Hirani said the Eye will also support "skeleton tracking."

Now, I'll admit, these are cool features, but I do hope the update allows the PlayStation Eye to work in the dark. Facial recognition firmware update or not, for this to work Sony's going to have to figure out a way for this forgotten gadget to function from within the pitch black confines of people's storage closets and attics. [Gamasutra Kotaku]

The powerful demo actually proves that facial data mining—real, accurate facial data mining—is coming to a Big Brother video search engine near you. The demo even does facial recognition from the side, as well as the obvious full-frontal we'd expect such an endeavor would have. "Non-frontal tracks" are planned for the future. Everything you see presented in the link was generated autonomously by the software, say the Carnegie Mellon folks.

Fun side game to play with this software: Spot the red shirts!

Note: There's no sound in the clips because of copyright restrictions. [Face Mining via Slashdot]

Face Detection
Apple says it uses facial detection to determine the existence of faces, and then facial recognition to separate one person from the other. The problem is, that first step is far from a catch-all:

• It suffers from the typical face-detection problem of an incomplete picture—it won't pick up all faces turned to the side, revealing just one eye. But far worse than that, it has a very hard time picking up faces tilted to either side, even if they're otherwise perfectly clear and symmetrical. In other words, if the year is 2029 and Apple's deathbots are coming for you, cock your head to the side, and they'll just truck on by.

• The other problem iPhoto's face detection suffers from is overconfidence. Sure, it makes sense that it picks up the faces of Mount Rushmore (well, at least Lincoln's) but it'll invent eyes and a nose from any old rumpled curtain or wood grain when it wants to.

Face Recognition
Once you get past the detection, the recognition kicks on. Some people are already saying it's crap, but it's remarkable when it wants to be. How do I know it's working? Because on many occasions I have seen it correctly identify faces in frames in the background of a shot. But recognition has some hang-ups of its own:

• Once you name a person and click on their face on the corkboard, iPhoto suggests lookalikes, which you approve or reject by clicking. The first round of suggestions are mainly nonsense—iPhoto needs a lot of data to work correctly. Confirm the identity of your subject 10 or 20 times then click Done so the system can recalibrate.

• In the first round or two, recognition errs on the side of inclusion: A bald guy with a beard and glasses won't just bring up similarly described gents, but will attract everybody who is bald, everybody who wears glasses and everybody with a beard. In my experiences, the images with the closest resemblance appear first, but as you scroll down, there are more and more random guesses. When it comes to babies, good luck—in those early rounds, iPhoto thinks all babies look alike. Again, you approve the suggested photos that are of the same person, and reject the ones that are not.

• Once you've done a round or two greenlighting more accurate shots of the person, it's important to reject ones that are not. If you leave them there, iPhoto will keep on suggesting them. I found that, if two people look kinda alike, it pays to identify them both, and go back and forth between them confirming more and more shots, so iPhoto learns faster who belongs where.

• Baldness, hair color and facial hair are all strong indicators for iPhoto. If your friend has a goatee or some kind of fancy moustache, don't ever let him shave it off. Likewise, if your mom switches hairstylists and starts getting a different dye job, she may as well don full hunter's camouflage. For some reason, iPhoto had an easier time discerning the blondes than the brunettes.

• People wearing glasses cause iPhoto to suggest matches of other people wearing glasses, in some cases people who are otherwise comically different. But iPhoto seems to have a lot of trouble with glasses in general, and can't always grasp the glasses-wearer well enough to confidently suggest more of that same person. Sunglasses are obviously a problem for recognition, but people wearing sunglasses are often suggested for anyone wearing glasses, as if it was all the same to iPhoto.

• There are two kinds of recognition dead-ends you can encounter, where iPhoto won't suggest any more photos for a person, even though you know they're out there, and where iPhoto suggests an endless supply of random faces as potential matches, clearly unable to narrow it down further. Both are infuriating, and require you to go out and identify photos manually in hopes of jogging its memory.

• Pets are not guaranteed to work with recognition. I'm not going to slander the good people of MacLife by calling BS, but seriously, I can't get neither cat nor dog to be recognized in any way by iPhoto, and I don't believe it's possible. You can identify them yourself, of course, but the reason it doesn't pull up suggested shots containing the same furry animal is that it's not looking at furry animals.

The Faces system is technically a time saver even when the recognition is not up to snuff, because by batching the more-or-less appropriate pictures together, you can tag them a lot faster than you otherwise could. There are plenty of user interface problems that I will address in the actual review, but in the meantime, I will leave you with this: After heavy testing for half a day, iPhoto became shockingly good at identifying my face. I can only imagine that, given more calibration and identified content, it will be better and better. My biggest fear is how many photos aren't clearing the first hurdle—face detection—and are therefore left completely out of the system. Who would have thought that the recognition would be easier to nail than the detection? Not me. [iPhoto '09]

Video you're watching is optimized for size depending on your distance from the wall. And when you walk away, it follows so that you never miss a commercial (Stay-With-Me-TV). IP cameras allow for life-sized videophone conferencing and remote learning. One of the niftiest functions is virtual photo manipulation, like in the cliched movie with Tom Cruise, allowing selection, rotation, zooming and discarding of images by arm motions alone (Easy-Gesture-TV). Panasonic allowed members of the public to try this out at CEATEC. The interface is basically intuitive but takes a fair bit of practice to master (the demo guy also admitted to aching arm muscles, and he's got another five to ten years to go before commercialization).

The tech uses range imagery sensors and what's called Time of Flight light tracking for real-time 3D image processing. Finally, LifeWall can act as wallpaper or decor, giving the room a new look whenever fancy strikes. Exposed brick, anyone? - Tim Hornyak

From their abstract:

Accurate face recognition is critical for many security applications. Current automatic face-recognition systems are defeated by natural changes in lighting and pose, which often affect face images more profoundly than changes in identity. The only system that can reliably cope with such variability is a human observer who is familiar with the faces concerned. We modeled human familiarity by using image averaging to derive stable face representations from naturally varying photographs. This simple procedure increased the accuracy of an industry standard face-recognition algorithm from 54% to 100%, bringing the robust performance of a familiar human to an automated system.

The S1000fd succeeds the Fuji S700 by having 10-megapixels, that 12x zoom, facial detection, automatic red-eye removal, panorama shooting mode, a 2.7-inch LCD, max 1600 ISO (or 3200 ISO at a decreased 3-megapixel resolution), picture stabilization, manual mode, 30fps VGA movies, high speed shooting (7.5fps at 2-megapixels for 15 shots, 3.3fps at 5-megapixels for 6 shots, 1.4fps at 10-megapixels for 3 shots) and an xD/SD/SD-HD slot. This will retail in April for $249.

The S8100fd, on the other hand, is also 10-megapixels but has an 18x wide angle zoom and 6400ISO (at 5-megapixels), which follows up the S8000fd's 18x zoom without wide angle. This, like the S1000fd, has face detection, but also has i-Flash (intelligent flash), manual mode, macro shooting at up to 1cm, dual-shot mode, 30fps VGA movies, 2.5-inch LCD, and xD/SD/SD-HC card compatibility. This will be available in March for $399.

FUJIFILM UNVEILS WORLD'S SMALLEST* 12X OPTICAL ZOOM DIGITAL CAMERA

SLR-Style FinePix S1000fd Extends Range and Feature Set With Longer Zoom,
Larger LCD and New Panorama Shooting Mode

Valhalla, NY, January 24, 2008 - FUJIFILM U.S.A. Inc. today announced the successor to the wildly popular SLR-styled FinePix S700 with the introduction of the world's smallest digital camera with a 12x optical zoom, the FinePix S1000fd.

Perfect for advanced amateur photographers who want an affordable, step-up digital camera, the 10-MegaPixel FinePix S1000fd builds on the legacy of the FinePix S700 with the addition of a Fujinon 12x optical zoom (33mm-396mm equivalent) for greater range and flexibility, Fujifilm's proprietary Face Detection Technology with Automatic Red Eye Removal, and a brand new Panoramic Shooting mode.

Face Detection with Automatic Red Eye Removal
Face Detection operates by identifying and prioritizing up to 6 faces in a framed scene, and then adjusting the focus and exposure accordingly to ensure the sharpness and clarity of human subjects in the picture, regardless of background. After a shot is captured each detected face is instantly checked for red eye; if it is found, it is corrected automatically, saving the time-consuming process of fixing it later.

Panorama Shooting Mode
For catching beautiful scenery or very large groups, the new Panorama Shooting mode makes it easy to create impressive panoramic photos. This mode captures and combines a maximum of three consecutive shots at 3 MegaPixel resolution each, which are saved to the memory card as a panoramic picture.

Rounding out the FinePix S1000fd's powerful feature set is a large 2.7" high-resolution (230k pixel) LCD plus electronic viewfinder (EVF) and ISO levels of up to ISO 1600 at full resolution and ISO 3200 at 3 MegaPixel resolution.

Fujifilm's new FinePix S1000fd also offers the following useful features:
Picture Stabilization mode: A selectable mode, Picture Stabilization uses the heightened sensitivity of the FinePix S1000fd and high-speed shutter settings to reduce blur caused by hand-shake or subject movement. It allows the camera to automatically choose the correct light sensitivity and optimal shutter speed to produce clear, blur-free images.
Full Manual Photographic Control: Photo enthusiasts and advanced photographers have total control with manual adjustment options for various camera settings including resolution, ISO, aperture, shutter speed and more.
High Speed Shooting: Capture the action with the High Speed Shooting mode: 7.5 fps @ 2MP for 15 shots; 3.3 fps @ 5MP for 6 shots; and 1.4 fps @ 10MP for 3 shots.
Movie Recording: VGA quality at 30 frames per second with sound.
14 Pre-programmed Scene Modes: The FinePix S1000fd features 14 pre-programmed scene modes that offer a one-touch setting for almost any situation, including: Portrait, Landscape, Sport, Night, Fireworks, Sunset, Snow, Beach, Museum, Party, Flower, Text.
xD / SD / SD-HC Compatible slot: The FinePix S1000fd features an "xD/SD Compatible slot" which accepts not only Fujifilm's traditional xD-Picture Cards but also Secure Digital (SD) and SD-High Capacity/SD-HC cards too.
Operates on 4xAA Batteries: The ultimate in convenience and accessibility, using AA batteries means in a pinch, more batteries are just moments away.

"With the FinePix S1000fd, Fujifilm is offering advanced amateur photographers an affordable, step-up digital camera," said David Troy, senior product manager, Consumer Digital Cameras, Electronic Imaging Division, FUJIFILM U.S.A., Inc. "Fitted with a Fujinon 12x optical zoom for greater range and flexibility and a new Panoramic Shooting mode for capturing beautiful scenic shots with ease, the FinePix S1000fd is packed full of high-end features and priced at a level consumers can afford."

The FinePix S1000fd will debut in April 2008 at a retail price of $249.95.

FUJIFILM ANNOUNCES 18X ULTRA-ZOOM CAMERA FOR BUDDING PROSUMERS FinePix S8100fd Offers Advanced Features at an Affordable Price

Valhalla, NY, January 24, 2008 - FUJIFILM U.S.A., Inc. today announced the launch of the long zoom, SLR-styled FinePix S8100fd digital camera. Perfect for photographers seeking a step-up digital camera, Fujifilm's FinePix S8100fd combines user-friendliness with long-zoom flexibility and high speed shooting modes that are rare at the consumer level and perfect for great action shots.

Continuing on the success of the wide-angle, long zoom FinePix S8000fd, the 10-MegaPixel FinePix S8100fd integrates a Fujinon 18x Wide Angle Optical Zoom fixed lens, which offers a 27mm-486mm equivalent and allows the user to achieve greater range than ever before. The sealed, fixed-lens system prevents dust contamination and eliminates the need for additional zoom or wide angle lenses, making it an easy-to-use, affordable alternative to the complex D-SLR system.

Features Born From Face Detection
Fujifilm's innovative face detection technology, recognized with a 2007 'Best of What's New Award' from Popular Science Magazine, has enabled a number of advanced features that advanced consumer photographer will enjoy. Face Detection operates by identifying and prioritizing up to 10 faces in a framed scene and then adjusting the focus and exposure accordingly to ensure the sharpness and clarity of human subjects in the picture, regardless of background. After the shot is captured the automatic Red Eye Removal feature instantly checks each detected face for red eye and if it's found, corrects it in the camera automatically, saving the time-consuming process of fixing it in your PC after the image is downloaded. A new Instant Zoom function captures moving subjects at high zoom settings. After zooming on a subject, a single button gives an additional 1.4x or 2x digital zoom at the center focus region of the frame. Zoom Bracketing performs a similar action using Fujifilm's face detection technology to lock its zoom action on a subject's face automatically as it enters the shot.

Like the FinePix S8000fd, the FinePix S8100fd features Fujifilm's Dual Image Stabilization, a marriage of mechanical sensor shift stabilization, to steady the photographer's hand, with Fujifilm's Picture Stabilization Technology, which uses fast shutter speeds and ISO levels of up to ISO 6400 (at 5 MegaPixels) for total anti-blur protection. As a result, an increase in clarity and sharpness is achieved, even in low light conditions. A Continuous Shooting Mode makes it easy to shoot moving subjects like pets and kids. This new feature allows high-speed shooting of up to 33 frames at 13.5 frames per second (at 3 megapixels; 6.8 frames per second at 5 megapixels). And with high speed playback at 10 frames per second you can be sure you've captured all of the action.

Other helpful features found on the FinePix S8100fd for top-quality picture-taking include:
i-Flash: i-Flash Intelligent Flash detects subtle lighting differences within a scene and then varies the flash intensity accordingly. It also leverages the high sensitivity of the FinePix S8100fd to enable the camera to use less flash, resulting in an image that displays pleasing, natural tones without a washed-out effect. And with an automatic pop-up flash, it's always ready when you need it.
Full Manual Photographic Control: Photo enthusiasts and advanced photographers have total control with manual adjustment options for various camera settings including resolution, ISO, aperture, shutter speed, and more.
Scene modes: A wide range of 13 pre-programmed scene modes provides top-quality photos in a variety of shooting conditions.
Super Macro Mode: Full-frame close-ups are easy with this feature that lets the photographer to get as close as 1cm (0.4 inch)
Dual Shot Mode: In this mode, the FinePix S8100fd quickly shoots two images in succession - one with and one without flash - saving both. This convenient function lets the user perform an on-the-spot comparison and decide whether the FinePix S8100fd produced the most pleasing photo with flash, or without.
Movie Mode: VGA quality 30 frames per second with sound.
High Resolution LCD: The 2.5" Wide View LCD display offers 230,000 pixels of high resolution with a 60 frames per second refresh rate for smooth viewing.
Electronic Viewfinder (EVF): In addition to framing your shots with the 2.5" high resolution LCD, the S8100fd also offers a high resolution electronic viewfinder to eye up the best shot with an astonishing 60 fps refresh rate for smooth viewing.
xD / SD / SD-HC Compatible slot: A single media slot accepts not only Fujifilm's traditional xD-Picture Cards but also Secure Digital (SD) and SD-High Capacity (SD-HC) cards too.
Operates on 4xAA Batteries: The ultimate in convenience and accessibility, using AA batteries means in a pinch, more batteries are just moments away.

"This is a work-horse camera for photographers who want the convenience of an SLR-like model, a powerful zoom, high-speed continuous shooting and the ease of use that is often relegated to more compact model," said David Troy, senior product manager, Consumer Digital Cameras, Electronic Imaging Division, FUJIFILM U.S.A., Inc. "The bonus that comes with the S8100fd is the set of features made possible by Fujifilm's advances in Face Detection and Dual Image Stabilization technology."

The FinePix S8100fd will debut in March 2008 at a retail price of $399.

Both laptops offer that frameless screen and a hinge that offers a larger separation between the keys and the screen so the display doesn't get in the way as much. They also have touch-sensitive controls at the top, which are designed more for multi-media functions than for no-look typing.

Then there's the built-in webcam with VeriFace facial recognition, which is present on both models. The Y710 has Halo Lighting, which is side bezel and logo lighting, and can hot swap a secondary hard drive in. The Y510 has a projected LED battery life indicator, and a light weave texture on top. Both models have OneKey recovery and battery management (don't all laptops?). There are also Dolby Speakers (two main, two secondary and a sub). The 710 has a 17-inch LCD and the Y510 has a 15.4-inch LCD, and both have a 1.3 megapixel camera.

Internally, there's a Intel Core 2 Do T5450 and T9300, ATI Mobility Radeon HD2600 with 256MB RAM, 250 or 500GB hard drive, and up to 4GB RAM on the Y710. The Y510 has an Intel Core 2 Duo T2330, T545 or T5550, Intel X3100 graphics, 160GB or 250GB hard drive, and up to 4GB RAM. The 710 will be $1199, and the 510 will be $799.

While a 90% recognition rate is 10% from perfect, such tests could become excellent prescreening methods, especially as the functional database grows to identify more and rarer conditions. This is why...er...my friend refuses to get cosmetic surgery. One day doctors will scan...his...face and have a solid argument on why he still wets the bed and needs to sleep with choochoo blankets. And just think of the efficient future when compact cameras use smile detectors that spot autism. [scotsman via spluch]

–Travis Hudson

Samsung L74 [LetsGoDigital]

The 3x optical zoom and 2.5-inch LCD makes this $299 shooter a nice choice for beginners and vacationers. – Jason Chen

Fujifilm FinePix F40fd [LivingRoom]

One of the best applications, in our opinion, is the Digimask Face Rendering system, where you can take your face and map it onto a real 3D model to use in games. Very awesome, and pretty damn accurate. But is it me or is this guy's mapped 3D face suspiciously similar to Frank West from Dead Rising? Or am I just playing that game way too much? – Jason Chen

An Update on Microsoft's Xbox 360 Live Vision Camera Technology [Gamasutra via Gamerscore Blog]

MyHeritage Home Page [MyHeritage via Chip Chick]