Xiaomi, a Chinese tech giant, has recently patented a new technology that can detect lies by scanning a person’s eyes. The technology relies on a phenomenon that occurs frequently when someone is lying: eye movements. The new lie detector system, based on this technology, is more reliable, accurate, and easier to use than the traditional polygraph.
The history of lie detectors dates back to 1938, when inventor Leonarde Keeler created the first polygraph. Xiaomi’s plan is to reinvent this technology, making it more accessible to everyday consumers. The new technology has just been patented and involves a system of multiple parts, including a mobile device with a camera and a storage unit. The technology records eye movements to determine the trajectory of the pupil, which can be a sign that the user is not telling the truth.
Xiaomi’s patent specifies that the system uses a telephoto camera with tilt and pan support, allowing the angle of capture to be adjusted to focus on the user’s face. Once the face is in focus, the system analyzes the movement and trajectory of the pupil. By comparing these movements to pre-established conditions, the system can indicate if the user is lying.
While the exact conditions are not known, research shows that pupils dilate between 4 and 8 percent when someone lies, and blink frequency increases up to eight times. It is possible that Xiaomi is combining several different signs measured through this system to increase its accuracy.
The patent also indicates that the system can be integrated into portable consumer devices, such as smartphones or tablets. This would enable a simple and effective lie detection function and “improve the user experience.”
It is unclear whether Xiaomi will develop this technology further, and if it will eventually be used in consumer products. Similar solutions have been attempted in the past, but never fully caught on. Nonetheless, it is an exciting project that we look forward to hearing more about in the future.