Although much of the imagery may not be watched in real time, it can be stored for later retrieval. Officials are also seeking ways to automate the analysis of data. Using higher quality cameras paves the way for increasingly sophisticated analysis and linking of the information.
Xue Junling, a project manager with Shenzhen Xinghuo Electronic Engineering, says facial recognition was already being used at key points such as big sports stadiums and border checkpoints, although some experts dispute its effectiveness.
Many see nothing wrong with the rapid expansion in surveillance cameras, particularly given official claims for their success in cutting crime. Shanghai police said video monitoring helped them to catch 6,000 suspects last year.
"If the purpose is for the public security of society, personal rights have to give way to public rights," said Prof Fu Dingsheng, of the East China University of Political Science and Law, although he added that better safeguards were needed to ensure systems were not abused.