Researchers Now Capable of Penetrating Structural Barriers Using Wireless Frequency Signals

In a groundbreaking study, researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have developed a method to map human bodies through walls using WiFi signals. This technology, which could open the door to low-cost, broadly accessible human tracking, has implications for privacy, both positive and negative.

The study, published in a recently published paper, expands on the use of WiFi signals for human movement detection, extending previous research in this field. The researchers, led by an unnamed team, used WiFi signals to send and receive a body's coordinates and then used DensePose, a technology known for mapping human bodies, to create detailed images.

The method is designed to work effectively in low-light situations where other technologies may be less effective. The Carnegie Mellon researchers believe they can make human tracking more accessible by reducing the need for advanced and expensive technology. This focus on reducing costs could potentially make it more affordable for a wider range of users.

However, the potential privacy implications are a point of debate among the study's authors. They position the breakthrough as potentially privacy-positive, arguing that it could be used for applications such as emergency response and search and rescue operations.

It's important to note that this is not the first time researchers have worked on methods to see people through walls. Researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, including Dina Katabi, have been working on using cellular signals and WiFi for through-wall sensing, with projects like this ongoing for at least ten years at MIT.

Tim Newcomb, a journalist based in the Pacific Northwest who covers stadiums, sneakers, gear, infrastructure, and more for various publications, including Popular Mechanics, has conducted interviews with notable figures such as Roger Federer, Kobe Bryant, and Tinker Hatfield. In an interview about the Carnegie Mellon study, Newcomb highlighted the potential benefits and concerns associated with the technology.

While the technology could potentially make human tracking more accessible and cheaper, it's crucial to consider the potential privacy implications and ensure that any applications of the technology prioritise user privacy and consent. As the field of through-wall sensing continues to evolve, it will be essential to continue the conversation about the balance between innovation and privacy.

Researchers Now Capable of Penetrating Structural Barriers Using Wireless Frequency Signals