Scientists have developed a compact and cost-effective facial recognition system using ultrathin optical components known as metasurfaces. The system, tested on a replica of Michelangelo's David sculpture, recognized faces as well as existing smartphone facial recognition while requiring less energy. It generated more infrared dots than standard commercial technology and is more versatile in generating customizable light patterns. The new system has potential applications in robotics, augmented reality, and the next generation of facial recognition technology.
