AI-powered police body cameras, once taboo, get tested on Canadian city's 'watch list' of faces

Police in Edmonton, Canada, have started a pilot project using AI-equipped body cameras to detect faces on a "high risk" watch list. The move by Axon Enterprise, Inc. has raised ethical concerns, especially since the company previously paused facial recognition due to privacy issues. The pilot aims to enhance officer and public safety by identifying individuals flagged for a history of serious offenses. However, critics worry about societal risks and the lack of public debate. Axon CEO Rick Smith describes the project as "early-stage field research" to gather insights. The pilot will run through December, with results analyzed later at the station.