Chapter 5 Conclusion

Advances in mobile computer vision hold great promise for assistive technology. If we can teach computers to see, they may become a valuable support for those of us whose sight is compromised or lost. However, decades-long experience has shown that creating successful assistive technology is difficult. Our hope is that a new
generation of computer vision researchers will take on the challenge, arm themselves with enough creativity to produce innovative solutions, and have humbleness to listen to the persons who will use this technology.

While computer vision systems can offer a high degree of vision, they are far from perfect solutions. Sound principles of system engineering are still required to ensure a high level of vision and image recognition rather than the assurance of vision simply from the inclusion of artificial intelligence in some form. The risks of compromise of distributed database of Computer vision system applications are high, particularly where the privacy of individuals and, hence, non-repudiation and irrevocability are concerned. It is possible to remove the need for such distributed databases through the careful application of biosensor infrastructure without compromising security. The influence of artificial intelligence and computer vision technology on society and the potential risks to privacy and threats to identity will require mediation through legislation. For much of the short history of artificial intelligence, the technological developments have been in advance of the ethical or legal ones. Careful consideration of the importance of Computer vision systems and how they should be legally protected is now required on a wider scale.