Berlin Police launch AI video surveillance pilot at Kottbusser Tor

The Berlin Police have launched a pilot project for AI-supported video surveillance at Kottbusser Tor in the Kreuzberg district. The initiative aims to use semantic and spatial artificial intelligence to identify specific situational patterns in public spaces, such as people falling or the onset of violent scenarios. When the system detects such events, it triggers an alert for law enforcement officers, though final situational assessments and decisions regarding police action remain the responsibility of human personnel.

The implementation is being conducted in several stages. It begins with a configuration phase where camera systems are set up and images are used exclusively for technical testing without permanent storage. Following a preparatory period of approximately four weeks, the project will move into a testing phase involving recorded data during specific operational hours. The ultimate goal is to transition into a continuous, 24/7 trial operation once the technology is deemed ready.

To address privacy concerns, authorities state that data will be encrypted and subject to automatic deletion periods. The project is intended to be a gradual rollout that may eventually expand to other high-crime areas within the city.