Halloween Security Boost In Hong Kong Raises Privacy Concerns Among Partygoers - 1

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Halloween Security Boost In Hong Kong Raises Privacy Concerns Among Partygoers

  • Written by Kiara Fabbri Former Tech News Writer
  • Fact-Checked by Sarah Frazier Former Content Manager

In a Rush? Here are the Quick Facts!

  • Police installed 50 new surveillance cameras in Lan Kwai Fong for Halloween.
  • Crowd-counting technology will monitor density and activate crowd control if needed.
  • Some revellers worry cameras could intrude on privacy and affect Halloween festivities.

Revellers in Hong Kong’s Lan Kwai Fong nightlife district are voicing privacy concerns over new surveillance measures introduced for Halloween. Police have installed 50 new permanent CCTV cameras across the area, aimed at managing crowds expected to exceed 25,000 during Today’s festivities, as reported by SCMP .

The cameras, equipped with crowd-counting technology, are part of enhanced security efforts to monitor real-time crowd density and activate crowd control measures if necessary. Public address systems have also been set up for emergency alerts, noted SCMP.

This installation is part of a broader campaign by Hong Kong’s police to expand surveillance capabilities, with plans to install thousands of additional cameras citywide, as previously reported by CNN .

Though Hong Kong consistently ranks among the world’s safest major cities, the police argue that these measures are necessary for crime prevention, as noted by CNN.

They have also raised the possibility of equipping cameras with advanced tools like facial recognition and artificial intelligence. This has sparked concerns among some experts who warn that Hong Kong could be moving closer to mainland China’s extensive surveillance systems and potential for repression, as noted by CNN.

While authorities cite safety as the main purpose, some partygoers feel the heightened surveillance could dampen Halloween’s atmosphere.

Joyce Chan, 40, who works near the area, expressed unease: “The installation of the surveillance cameras in the area is good for safety, but the devices could intrude on our privacy.” She also questioned the need for such extensive surveillance outside major festivals like Halloween and Christmas, as reported by SCMP.

First-time visitor Danica Liu, 24, echoed these concerns, worrying the cameras might affect her enjoyment of the night, as reported by SCMP. “I may not have as much fun as I would [without the cameras],” she said, calling for a balance between safety and privacy.

Some, however, are more accepting of the added measures. Marketing professional Jay Cheng, 34, considers safety paramount, saying, “Surveillance cameras are everywhere. I don’t mind as long as they are used for safety reasons,” as reported by SCMP.

For Gary Yeung, 42, who visited the area for lunch, the primary concern lies with the handling of footage. “I don’t know what purposes the surveillance footage will be used for,” he remarked, noted SCMP.

As Halloween draws near, the intensified security highlights a tension between public safety and privacy in one of Hong Kong’s busiest festive locations.

Nintendo Launches New Music App Featuring Game Soundtracks - 2

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Nintendo Launches New Music App Featuring Game Soundtracks

  • Written by Andrea Miliani Former Tech News Expert
  • Fact-Checked by Sarah Frazier Former Content Manager

In a Rush? Here are the Quick Facts!

  • Nintendo Music is available for Nintendo Switch Online members in 45 countries at no additional cost
  • The new platform includes audio files from video games from up to 40 years
  • It includes customizable features and multiple playlists

Nintendo launched yesterday a new music app, Nintendo Music, with video game soundtracks for Nintendo Switch Online members with compatible devices, at no additional cost in over 40 countries.

According to the press release , users with a Nintendo Switch paid membership will be able to access music from a great variety of video games, including historical audio content from up to 40 years ago.

“From the iconic beats of Super Mario Bros. and the grand soundscapes of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild , to the tentacle-tapping tunes of Splatoon 3 and beyond,” states the document.

Nintendo also shared a video announcement across multiple platforms explaining more about the new product, its features, and the music included.

Nintendo Music, a new smart-device app exclusively for #NintendoSwitchOnline members, lets you stream or download music from Nintendo’s library of soundtracks! Nintendo Music will be released later today! Learn more: https://t.co/X5uL1ThupO pic.twitter.com/2NOu7k22zf — Nintendo of America (@NintendoAmerica) October 30, 2024

Users can listen to specific video game songs, curated playlists (for characters, themes, and moods), create playlists, extend the length of songs to up to 60 minutes, and hide songs through a “spoiler feature” for games users haven’t finished or played yet. The new app is available on the App Store and Google Play.

The multinational video company launched Nintendo Music in 45 countries and expects to expand to more regions soon.

Many users have already shared their excitement for the new app. “Nintendo finally realized people want to listen to the music they made,” said one user on X . “I don’t need any other music app anymore,” added another.

However, in just a few hours, the brand-new platform has also faced criticism for its similarities with the Youtube Music app, and other users not understanding the value of the app.

A few days ago, Nintendo announced a paid version of a new Animal Crossing app called Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp Complete set for release on December 3 at an introductory discount price of $10.