KAIST's $7 Smartphone Accessory Detects Hidden Cameras with 94% Accuracy
At the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), researchers have created SweepLED, a smartphone accessory priced at $7 that can identify concealed cameras in just five seconds with an accuracy rate of 94%. This LED case attaches to any smartphone, aiming to alleviate worries regarding unauthorized filming in places like hotels and restrooms. Unlike traditional detectors, SweepLED examines reflections as light directions change and records a video of the light sweep. An AI model detects potential hidden cameras by identifying distortions in reflections. In trials involving 30 common objects, it achieved a 94% accuracy rate, surpassing consumer-grade detectors that overlooked 59% of devices. Additional real-world evaluations are necessary to confirm its efficacy. The complete study is accessible online.
Key facts
- SweepLED is a $7 smartphone accessory developed by KAIST researchers.
- It detects hidden cameras with 94% accuracy in under five seconds.
- The device uses an LED case and deep-learning analysis of reflection patterns.
- Existing detectors often produce false positives from glossy surfaces.
- SweepLED analyzes changes in reflection shape and movement as LED light direction changes.
- In tests with 30 everyday objects, it achieved 94% accuracy.
- A UCL study found consumer-grade detectors missed 59% of hidden cameras.
- Further real-world testing is needed to confirm performance outside the lab.
Entities
Institutions
- Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)
- Digital Trends
- UCL
Locations
- South Korea