The Texas Researchers have built a tiny new imaging chip that can detect the outlines of objects through barriers such as cardboard or even wall. Imagine being able to see through walls or inside boxes using your smartphone. While it sounds like science fiction, this capability might soon become a reality.
This upcoming technology innovation is similar to the large screening devices we're familiar with at airport security, but it uses electromagnetic frequencies between microwave and infrared, which are considered safe for humans.
The chip is powered by CMOS technology, the same technology used in computer processing and memory chips. It's like having Superman's X-ray vision in the palm of your hand, but instead of X-rays, it uses signals at frequencies between 200 gigahertz and 400 gigahertz.
However, this technology is cool but not without privacy concerns. Do we really want to live in a world where someone can potentially see through our clothes or handbags just by pointing their smartphone at us?
The potential misuse of this technology by law enforcement or other authorities raises significant concerns, such as the possibility of police using smartphones to see inside homes or vehicles without a warrant.
As this technology becomes more widespread, these questions will need to be addressed.
The researchers behind the imager chip are aware of these privacy issues and are working to limit its capabilities.
However, it is challenging to predict all the ways new technology might be used or misused once it's available.