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Google Patents Image-Capturing Walking Sticks

Posted by Unknown on from the all-the-better-to-see-you-with dept.

theodp writes "GeekWire reports that Google has patented an image-capturing walking stick, which can boldly go where no Google Street View Car can. The walking stick has embedded cameras and location sensors, and a switch at the bottom that causes the device to snap pictures whenever the stick hits the ground. The patent also covers using canes and crutches in a similar fashion."

2 of 117 comments (clear)

  1. Re:anyone find that creepy? by lxs · · Score: 3, Insightful

    I don't see dirty old men using Google Glass to take upskirt pictures. These however...

  2. Re:anyone find that creepy? by Sarten-X · · Score: 4, Insightful

    I find it creepy that people don't understand patents. This isn't just a camera on a stick like a spy would use. It's a particular design for fitting cameras, sensors, processing gear, and other equipment into a particular form factor, solving particular engineering problems. Comparing it to WWII spy gear because it looks like a walking stick and takes pictures is like comparing a Formula 1 race car to a horse-drawn carriage, because they both drive on roads and have round wheels.

    --
    You do not have a moral or legal right to do absolutely anything you want.