Is AI watching you? The hidden links between research and surveillance

Is AI watching you? The hidden links between research and surveillance

Author: Springer Nature Limited June 25, 2025 Duration: 31:30

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In this episode:



00:45 Is AI-research being co-opted to keep track of people?

A significant amount of research in the AI field of computer vision is being used to analyse humans in ways that support the development of surveillance technologies, according to new research. By analysing the contents of thousands of research papers, the team behind the work showed that 90% of studies, and 86% of patents resulting from them, involved data relating to imaging humans. While there are many positive applications for this technology, such as in medical diagnostics, this work shows evidence of a pipeline from computer-vision research to surveillance.


Research article: Kalluri et al.

News and Views: Computer-vision research is hiding its role in creating ‘Big Brother’ technologies

Video: Is AI powering Big Brother? Surveillance research is on the rise

News: Wake up call for AI: computer-vision research increasingly used for surveillance

Editorial: Don’t sleepwalk from computer-vision research into surveillance




09:38 Research Highlights

A minuscule robot that can manipulate liquid droplets, and the sensors that can identify hydrothermal explosions at Yellowstone National Park.

Research Highlight: This tiny robot moves mini-droplets with ease

Research Highlight: Sensors pinpoint the exact time of a Yellowstone explosion



12:12 The first images from the world’s largest digital camera

This week, the Vera C. Rubin Observatory in Chile has unveiled the first images from its 3,200 megapixel digital camera. We discuss the images, and how the facility will help researchers learn more about the Universe.

News: First images from world’s largest digital camera leave astronomers in awe



19:18 Briefing Chat

How scientists created hexanitrogen, a new molecule made of six nitrogen atoms, and the why researchers are excited about the first confirmed skull of an extinct Denisovan.

Chemistry World: Most energetic molecule ever made is stable – in liquid nitrogen

Nature: First ever skull from ‘Denisovan’ reveals what ancient people looked like


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Each week, the Nature Podcast opens a door into the latest and most significant developments across the entire scientific landscape. Rather than just summarizing headlines, this production from Springer Nature Limited delves into the substance and the people behind the findings. You’ll hear directly from researchers as they explain their work, from astronomical discoveries to intricate zoological studies, all grounded in the rigorous reporting of Nature's own journalists and editors. The conversations provide context that turns complex papers into compelling narratives, offering a clear sense of why each story matters. It’s a direct line to the forefront of science, technology, and research news, delivered with a focus on depth and understanding. Tuning into this podcast is like having a thoughtful guide through the week's most pivotal science, making even the most specialized topics accessible and engaging for anyone curious about how the world works. The consistent quality and breadth of subject matter make it a reliable source for anyone looking to stay informed on scientific progress.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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