Smartphone apps are helpful but GM China has come out with an idea which is plain ‘creepy’. GM China’s R&D arm has announced its vision of a smart phone app – named ‘DiDi Plate’. It allows drivers to text fellow drivers, by simply scanning their number plates with their camera.
In the promotional video for this technology, GM shows a man asking the girl in front for a date, yea if it was that easy. It also shows a woman scanning the number plate of the car that’s blocking her which is a bit more acceptable to use. The driver simply needs to scan the license plate in front of them and they can start texting the vehicle in front of them.
The app just scans the number plate and lets the driver get in touch with the owner, even if the recipient hasn’t downloaded the app. Didi Plate has lots of privacy downfalls hence it would breach many UK laws so don’t expect to see it soon on the roads. Whereas the Chinese approach of ‘anything goes’ will help it to flourish.
One of the biggest issues is the use of mobile phone behind the wheel and its consequences. Road rage is another worrying possibility. According to the director of GM’s China R&D Division, John Du, “Even if the other driver didn’t register this app, you can still give them greetings and comments.” This app is probably the strangest use of technology yet.
What do you think of the new GM app? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.
