Some people like to text, a lot. They even do this while walking, which is quite dangerous, especially in busy streets (watch out for the manhole!)
Enter Road SMS, an Android app that lets you peer through the camera of your smartphone so you can see where you are headed while happily thumbing away.
As far as I can tell, it looks like an exclusive for the Samsung App Store but this being an Android app, I’m sure it’ll pop up at other places eventually.
The Concept Behind Road SMS
The idea behind Road SMS is simple yet innovative. By utilizing the camera on your smartphone, the app provides a live feed of the ground in front of you. This way, you can continue texting without the risk of tripping over obstacles or stepping into dangerous situations. The app overlays your text messages on the camera feed, allowing you to see both your text and the path ahead simultaneously. This concept is particularly useful in urban environments where the risk of accidents is higher due to the density of people and obstacles.
Practicality and User Experience
While the app aims to enhance safety, its practicality can be debated. Holding your phone in front of you while walking might make you look a bit silly, and it could also draw unwanted attention. Moreover, the effectiveness of the app largely depends on the quality of your smartphone’s camera and the lighting conditions. In low-light environments, the camera feed might not be clear enough to provide a safe walking experience.
As for me, I’ll just pause when I need to send an SMS. While this app may be marginally safer, it does make you look silly having to hold your phone right in front of you while walking.
Another point to consider is the battery consumption. Using the camera continuously can drain your battery quickly, which might be a concern for users who rely heavily on their phones throughout the day. Additionally, the app’s interface needs to be user-friendly to ensure that it doesn’t become a distraction in itself.
Have a look at our article on Android vs iPhone to see which smartphone and mobile platform is best for you.
Alternatives and Future Developments
While Road SMS is a step in the right direction, there are other alternatives and future developments that could further enhance pedestrian safety. For instance, augmented reality (AR) could be integrated into such apps to provide more detailed information about the surroundings, such as highlighting potential hazards or guiding users through complex environments.
Moreover, wearable technology like smart glasses could offer a more seamless experience. Instead of holding a phone, users could receive text overlays directly in their field of vision, allowing for a more natural and less conspicuous way to stay connected while walking.
In conclusion, Road SMS is an interesting app that addresses a real-world problem. However, its practicality and effectiveness may vary depending on individual preferences and circumstances. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect more sophisticated solutions to emerge, making it safer and more convenient to stay connected on the go.
via Yugatech
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