FT News Briefing China’s proliferating smart city technology
Jun 14, 2021
The podcast dives into the emergence of China's smart city technology, highlighting its global surveillance implications and rising privacy concerns. With nations reacting to these risks, international scrutiny is intensifying. Meanwhile, South Korea's shipbuilding sector is thriving, fueled by a global trade surge and upcoming IPOs. G7 leaders are pushing for a greener alternative to China's Belt and Road Initiative, sparking varied responses from climate advocates ahead of COP26. It's a fascinating look at technology and geopolitics in today's world.
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Smart City Tech Concerns
- Chinese companies market smart city tech globally, focusing on surveillance and facial recognition.
- This raises fears about cyberattacks, data access, and digital authoritarianism.
Global Use of Smart City Tech
- Chinese smart city tech is used in roughly half of Europe's capitals and is widespread in Asia.
- The Middle East also utilizes this tech, with Southeast Asia having the highest concentration.
Safe City vs. Smart City
- Safe city tech automates policing using AI-powered video cameras and facial recognition.
- Smart city tech automates key city functions like traffic control, garbage collection, and utilities.