Computerizing people may be next step in tech

http://www.news-herald.com/lifestyle/20131223/computerizing-people-may-be-next-step-in-tech

by jonbaer • 13 years ago

11 7 13 years ago

sn0v• 13 years ago

The technologist in me screams "Deus Ex!", while the realist in me worries about its implications for security and privacy.

dasmithii• 13 years ago

Despite my curiosity for emerging technologies, this type of bio-hacking scares me. I'm all for augmenting and virtualizing reality; however, embedding devices within the human body makes me cringe...

Imagine if Google's next big product involved a brain-computer interface in which the mind communicated directly with Google search. As great as this sounds, the phrase "security concerns" belittles ethical issues here. On the other hand, though, given medical resources, I would probably do the same myself. I guess my fears are caused by mass production, mandates, and lack of control, rather than the technology itself.

captain_mars2• 13 years ago

Imagine if Google's next big product involved a brain-computer interface in which the mind communicated directly with Google search.

The term "Adsense" would acquire a whole new meaning.

arca_vorago• 13 years ago

And that would be when everyone realized Stallman was right, but it'll be too late for most of them.

lstamour• 13 years ago

Chrome kept crashing on me as I tried to read the article, but if I understand what I've read correctly put me squarely into the camp of improve-out-of-body technology first. Better understanding of my body's context should not be at the cost of implanting or trusting some technology for a fixed period -- even biometrics. Personally I prefer Bluetooth Low Energy. Easier to swap out ID tools or leave them at home if necessary. Easier to provide temporary or one-time access via smart phones, or use the smart phone as a device to enter a smart phrase or other second factor beyond the possession of the BLE ID or phone itself. Next-generation 2FA will hopefully use Mac support of Bluetooth Low Energy for years now to provide challenge responses for 2FA, making it even easier than reading a number or plugging in a Yubikey, or it could require a passcode on the device but then have the added benefit of easier sharing between computer and phone.

algo27• 13 years ago

I think that most people can agree on the fact that this type of technology holds much medical promise. The public will most like have concerns about its other applications. At what point is line crossed between medical need and bio-curiosity? Is the privacy risk worth some neat statistics which may or may not improve the users health? These questions will become more relevant as accessibility increases.

As for the use of implants to unlock doors and so on, I find it discomforting. Applications such as this are too personal and do not provide enough benefit. Suffice to say that I will be holding on to my keys.

captain_mars2• 13 years ago

When I read the headline, my first thought was, "How about humanizing people first?"

As much as I love technology, I'm afraid our technological progress is far outpacing the wisdom required to wield it well.

Highly advanced technology in the hands of unethical or short-sighted people can actually cause more harm than benefit.

Computerizing people may be next step in tech

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