This woman can't recognize her own daughter's face, but technology is helping herA new app is offering assistance to Karla Holmes, who has ‘face-blindness.’

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A new app is offering assistance to Karla Holmes, who has ‘face-blindness’

Graham Duggan(Josh Freed Productions Inc)

Up to 2 per cent of us may be face-blind

Holmes isn't alone in her face-blindness. The documentary notes that a number of noted celebrities and well-known figures such as Jane Goodall, Brad Pitt, Stephen Fry and Apple's Steve Wozniak are all said to be face-blind to varying degrees.

In fact, studies suggest that up to two per cent of usmay have face-blindness. 

People with prosopagnosia may also have trouble differentiating between other things like cars or facial expressions of emotion, but sometimes, the inability to recognize faces is the only symptom. 

In certain situations, Holmes can't even recognize herself. In department stores with lots of mirrors, "I see myself on an angle, I don't realize that it's me," she says. "It's my reflection, [but] I don't recognize that person as being me."

Using facial recognition technology to unlock a superpower

In recent years, technology has been developed that rivals our own "superpower." Facial recognition software has developed quickly, with many now using their face instead of passwords to unlock devices or make financial transactions.

For Holmes, facial recognition technology can be incredibly helpful. While testing out a personalized app, she was able to recognize members of her flock for the first time. 

Watch: This face-blind woman uses a smartphone app to recognize people's faces for her.

A new app can help this woman with ‘face-blindness’ | In Your Face

13 days agoDuration 1:34For Karla Holmes, facial recognition technology can be incredibly helpful. While testing out a personalized app, she was able to recognize members of her flock for the first time.QUIZ: Are you a super-recognizer?

(editor：)