CBP Testing Microsoft HoloLens AR And Blockchain For Inspection

Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is testing many tech-based pilots to deploy them in enhancing the operations of the agency. In line with this action, CBP agents are testing and using an augmented reality headset, Microsoft HoloLens. Notably, this is to inspect goods for any possibility of intellectual rights violation.

Indeed, the implication of using this technology is that it will kick messy paperwork into obsolescence for good. The agents will deploy a HoloLens-enabled mobile app to instantly access the details of the product. Guess what, this negates the usual practice of using paper guides to ensure that imported products are not fake.

How Does the New Approach Work?

While it seems so simple, the approach is technologically advanced. Essentially, the HoloLens-powered mobile apps will access the product. Afterward, the app’s algorithms compare the reference images to the physical objects that they are examining.

Apart from the use of this innovative technology on imported materials, CBP is also considering taking it to the consumers. In this sense, the agency is thinking of developing a consumer-centric app. The consumers will use the app to ascertain the legitimacy of pharmaceutical products before paying for them.

More CBP Tests Are Ongoing

One of the series of tests that CBP is currently carrying out is live testing of blockchain proof-of-concept (PoC).  Although the agency has concluded that specific test, the aim of it was to technologically verify certificates of origin that certain associations’ partners present. The partners are from the Central America Free Trade Agreement and the North America Free Trade Agreement.

Vincent Annunziato, the Director of Business Transformation and Innovation Division at CBP’s Office of International Trade, explains further. Annunziato noted that the end goal of all the tests is to enhance their operations by improving the assessment speed and eliminating fake products.

Use of Blockchain Technology

CBP is also collaborating with the University of Houston to explore the use of blockchain technology in enhancing its operations. This step has become critical as new use cases of blockchain technology emerge every day. Annunziato stated that CBP will take the next step, which is deploying the technology in their daily operations as a way of moving forward. He listed a few questions begging for answers, saying that he “can’t see [them] in the grand scheme.”

The CBP official noted that they have kicked off meetings with trade partners in order to better secure intellectual property using blockchain technology. On when they are likely to have their first “requirements” meeting, Annunziato marked down January 2019.

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