BMW has filed a patent for a technology capable of preventing intoxicated drivers from operating their vehicles through the Digital Key app.
According to the website Auto Blog, the idea is that the digital key app, responsible for starting the car, could access data from a breathalyzer connected to the smartphone.
If the driver refuses to take the test or cannot prove that their blood alcohol level is below the legal limit, the car may remain immobilized indefinitely.
To avoid leaving the driver completely stranded, BMW suggested that the digital key app could still be used to unlock the doors, activate the infotainment and climate control systems, minimizing the chances of a drunk user freezing or falling asleep outside while waiting for a taxi or ride.
This technology has raised questions about how an individual’s data could be used and whether their breathalyzer scores would be recorded and possibly even sold to insurance companies. It is worth remembering that GM was previously sued for selling user data.
However, this patent also highlighted that humans have repeatedly proven that they cannot always be trusted to make safe choices. Therefore, if the German automaker’s idea can save the lives of a few people, it cannot be entirely bad.
Photos: BMW. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
