Age estimation by facial analysis based on applications available for smartphones

Area of Science:

• Forensic Science
• Anthropology

Background:

• Forensic Dentistry is crucial for human identification, with age estimation aiding anthropological profiling.
• Modern technology offers new age estimation methods, including software apps utilizing algorithms to minimize subjective bias in facial recognition.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of two distinct age estimation software applications.
• To assess the reliability of these apps in forensic age estimation.

Main Methods:

• The study analyzed a sample of 100 individuals (50 males, 50 females).
• Two specific applications, "How Old Do I Look? - Age Camera" and "How Old Am I? - Age Camera, Do You Look Like in Selfie Face Pic?", were utilized.
• Univariate and multivariate statistical analyses were performed on the collected data.

Main Results:

• The age estimation apps demonstrated high reliability when applied to male participants.
• A significant discrepancy was observed between actual and estimated ages for female participants, indicating a lack of equivalence.

Conclusions:

• The evaluated software applications show promise as supplementary tools for age estimation in forensic contexts, particularly for male individuals.
• Further research may be needed to improve accuracy for female age estimation using similar technologies.