Cannes trials software to monitor mask-wearing

The City of Cannes has been trialling artificial intelligence (AI) software to track mask-wearing and social distancing in preparation for the easing of France’s strict lockdown from today.

An AI algorithm transforms images from security cameras into data to calculate the number and percentage of people who are wearing face masks and practising social distancing, as is required in public places due to coronavirus (COVID-19).

The technology, provided by start-up Datakalab, has been deployed in three Cannes markets since April 25 and has now been expanded to buses in the Palm Bus network. According to the data so far, 74 percent of people in Cannes are complying with mask-wearing rules.

Dat...