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MS's "Lifeblogging" Camera Enters Mass Production
holy_calamity writes "Remember Microsoft's camera to be slung around the necks of people with Alzheimer's to help them recall where they'd been? A version of this device will now be mass-produced by a UK firm, Vicon, which obtained a license from Microsoft to manufacture the camera. It is worn around the neck and takes an image every thirty seconds, or in response to its light sensor, accelerometer, or body-heat sensor indicating that something of interest may be happening. Until now only a few hundred had been made for research, which showed they can genuinely help people with memory problems. The new version will be marketed to Alzheimer's researchers this winter, and to consumers for 'lifelogging' beginning in 2010."
Can you imagine what'd happen if Google got hold of this? We'd have high-resolution "street view" images of every bingo parlor on earth! Okay, in Japan it might be pachinko houses...
With Microsoft at the helm, we can sit back free of worry - they've earned our trust with their consistent, careful handling of our personal information! Grandma is safe, cradled gently in Ballmer's strong arms...
#DeleteChrome
There is almost certainly prior art to bash any patents with. At least one CS group I know has been playing with systems like this for many years. Hell, their implementation is probably cheaper and easier: A standard camera phone. Using an accelerometer to detect 'events' and fusing with GPS are also quite old hat. Micro$oft might have something original with the temp sensor.
Microsoft has been really trying to push into 'medical' systems. They see it as a massive cash cow, so don't to see anything optimized for a goal other than maximizing profit.
instead of LifeBlogging, why not tie a cinder-block around her neck and take a visit to the closest river?