BMW has filed a patent for a technology that can prevent drunk drivers from operating their vehicles via the Digital Key-app.
According to the website Auto Blog is the idea that the digital key app, which is responsible for starting the car, can retrieve data from an alcohol tester connected to the smartphone.
If the driver refuses to take the test or cannot prove that the blood alcohol level is below the legal limit, the car can be blocked indefinitely.
To prevent the driver from being completely excluded, he said BMW ensure that the digital key app can still be used to unlock the doors and activate the infotainment and climate systems, reducing the chance of a drunk user freezing outside or falling asleep while waiting for a taxi or ride.
This technology raises questions about how an individual’s data can be used and whether their alcohol test results are recorded and possibly even sold to insurance companies. It is worth noting that GM was previously sued for selling user data.
However, this patent also emphasizes that people have proven time and time again that they cannot always be trusted to make safe choices. Therefore, if the idea of the German manufacturer can save the lives of some people, it cannot be entirely bad.
Photos: BMW. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
