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title: ""While AI is usually envisioned as a smart personal assistant or…"
date: 2019-03-06
source: facebook
type: Archer T. Ships shared a link.
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# "While AI is usually envisioned as a smart personal assistant or…

*March 6, 2019 · Facebook*

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[https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2019-03-04/the-ai-cameras-that-can-spot-shoplifters-even-before-they-steal](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2019-03-04/the-ai-cameras-that-can-spot-shoplifters-even-before-they-steal){target="_blank"}
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\"While AI is usually envisioned as a smart personal assistant or self-driving car, it turns out the technology is pretty good at spotting nefarious behavior. Like a scene out of the movie "Minority Report," algorithms analyze security-camera footage and alert staff about potential thieves via a smartphone app. The goal is prevention; if the target is approached and asked if they need help, there's a good chance the theft never happens.\
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Vaak made headlines last year when it helped to nab a shoplifter at a convenience store in Yokohama. Vaak had set up its software in the shop as a test case, which picked up on previously undetected shoplifting activity. The perpetrator was arrested a few days later.\
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"I thought then, 'Ah, at last!'" said Vaak founder Ryo Tanaka, 30. "We took an important step closer to a society where crime can be prevented with AI."\
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Shoplifting cost the global retail industry about \$34 billion in lost sales in 2017 --- the biggest source of shrinkage, according to a report from Tyco Retail Solutions. While that amounts to approximately 2 percent of revenue, it can make a huge difference in an industry known for razor-thin margins.\
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The opportunity is huge. Retailers are projected to invest \$200 billion in new technology this year, according to Gartner Inc., as they become more open to embracing technology to meet consumer needs, as well as improve bottom lines.\"
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