Technology is cool. Right now, we have watches that can order a pizza and monitor our heart rate simultaneously. And mini-computers that we keep in our pockets and unlock by looking at them. What a time to be alive, right?
But what about privacy? Delta recently launched information screens that operate with "parallel reality" technology. Is it amazing or amazingly Big Brother-level scary? Let's take a look.
Here's Five Fast Facts …… :
- ✈️ The tech - The "parallel reality" boards developed by Delta Airlines and Misapplied Sciences lets 100 people look at the same digital screen but see only their flight information. So don't worry (too much) about the creeper behind you. He won't be able to view your travel deets, just steal your wallet while you're gawking at the screen.
- 🧪 The experiment - Right now, there's only one board. To try out the new tech, you must present your boarding pass or use a digital identity program kiosk. Developers predict this will be the standard in airports soon enough, though.
- 🧚 The skinny - Okay, so how safe is it? Misapplied Sciences says they do not store personal data or utilize facial recognition or biometrics. Instead, millions of fairies throw your information at you in pixie dust. Just kidding. Pixels in the display actually project millions of light rays at you, and motion sensors follow you so you can see your info no matter where you stand.
- 🚶♂️ The benefits - One cool feature is that it displays information in your preferred language, making it easier for international visitors to get to where they need to be. And, if you're always running late like me - your personalized info includes the walk-time to your gate or baggage claim area.
- 👎 The downside - While your general privacy will be protected when using parallel reality technology, the tech can still be used to target you in other ways - like advertising. Think it's freaky when Facebook gives you a targeted ad after you were just thinking about the product? Wait until the commercial plays for you automatically while you're just trying to hustle through the airport.
🔥Bottom line: It's fantastic. It's incredible. And it's probably coming whether we want it or not. Parallel reality will likely be used in airports and at any crowded venue - concerts, theme parks, stadiums, resorts - the list is endless. Your privacy is probably not at risk, at least not any more than it's already at stake just by being on social media.
And speaking of social media! Want to tell us what you think about this new tech? Hollar on Social Media – and be sure to share this newsletter with friends & coworkers!
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