In an effort to demonstrate responsible A.I., Microsoft is looking to get rid of face analysis tools. The software company will still utilize facial recognition technology; however, according to the New York Times, “The technology giant will stop offering automated tools that predict a person’s gender, age and emotional state and will restrict the use of its facial recognition tool.”
Why is Microsoft looking to get rid of face analysis tools?
Many activists believe that some of the facial recognition technology used to identify gender, age, or emotion has the potential for bias. Additionally, Microsoft has been wanting to push for increased responsibility concerning how their facial recognition technology operates. They even implemented an exhaustive document called “Responsible AI Standard.” According to the New York Times, “The requirements include ensuring that systems provide ‘valid solutions for the problems they are designed to solve’ and ‘a similar quality of service for identified demographic groups, including marginalized groups.'”
For this change to take effect, Microsoft will begin offboarding and phasing out customers that currently use the specific type of facial recognition criticized for bias. New customers will not be able to access that type of recognition. Natasha Crampton, Microsoft’s A.I. officer says, “There’s a huge amount of cultural and geographic and individual variation in how we express ourselves. That led to reliability concerns, along with the bigger questions of whether “facial expression is a reliable indicator of your internal emotional state.”
You can also stay up-to-date on relevant news to the technology industry through the APC Blog. We feature articles that spotlight thought-leadership topics that provide information and tips for hiring managers, professionals, and top technology news.
Kristen Burgess is the Marketing Specialist at Alliance of Professionals & Consultants, Inc. She has five years’ experience in curating content for digital platforms, social media contributions, and supporting marketing campaigns and strategies. Before joining the APC wolfpack, she worked in digital marketing for software as a service, giving her keen insight into the types of professionals APC hires today. In addition, she likes to stay up-to-date on the most relevant trends within the technology industry through thought-provoking podcasts and newsletters while paying attention to industry leaders’ trends. In her spare time, she serves on the Management Team and helps craft communications for the Junior League of Durham and Orange Counties.