

How facial-recognition firms turn public deals into private gold
19 snips Feb 10, 2025
Indian startups are increasingly tapping into the booming demand for surveillance technology through government contracts. However, these projects often come with unpredictability, making private clients vital for profitability. The podcast dives into the challenges of balancing public and private contracts in the facial recognition space. It also contrasts the different dynamics and expectations of these contracts, illustrating a complex landscape where startups must navigate fluctuating quality standards and payment structures.
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Temple Facial Recognition Failure
- A 2021 pilot project used facial recognition to identify temple goers.
- It failed because devotees shave their heads at the temple, altering their appearance.
India's Surveillance Obsession
- India is increasingly obsessed with surveillance tech, including the government.
- Government surveillance projects are often large-scale but lack clear purpose or goals.
Government Contracts: A Double-Edged Sword
- Government contracts are attractive for startups due to their size and prestige.
- However, these contracts can be logistically challenging and not always profitable.