San Francisco has become the first US city to ban the use of facial-recognition software by city agencies and the police.
The city's Board of Supervisors that voted in favour of the ban said the technology puts people’s safety at risk and hinders efforts to fight crime.
It, however, carves out an exception for the city's international airport and port.
The legislation also calls for approval from city administrators before introducing new surveillance technology.
Experts say the move could also spur other local governments to take similar action.

Iran could open Strait of Hormuz within a month if terms agreed, state TV says
Uganda closes border with Congo to try to limit Ebola spread
Rescue teams find 5 trapped in Laos cave, search for 2 more continues
31 killed, 40 wounded in Israeli raids on Lebanon
