Microsoft patents "avoid ghetto" feature for the GPS app in its smartp

http://seattle.cbslocal.com/2012/01/06/microsoft-patents-avoid-ghetto-feature-for-gps-devices/

EDMOND, Wash. (CBS Seattle) –Microsoft has been granted a patent for its "avoid ghetto" feature for GPS devices.

A GPS device is used to find shortcuts and avoid traffic, butMicrosoft's patentstates that a route can be plotted for pedestrians to avoid an "unsafe neighborhood or being in an open area that is subject to harsh temperatures."

Created for mobile phones, the technology uses the latest crime statistics and weather data and includes them when calculating a route.

The patent, written in a combination of tech-speak and legalese, was awarded to Microsoft earlier this week. It also described other uses for the new GPS technology.

One section of the patent mentioned that advertisers can use the technology to navigate a user through a newly set up ad campaign.

Microsoft declined to comment to CBS Seattle.

Personally I think this is a good idea. Let's be honest, it may not be politically correct, but none of us want to drive through a ghetto.

I think it can be a good idea.:|

I think it's a good idea as well, it gives you options.

Personally I think this is a good idea. Let's be honest, it may not be politically correct, but none of us want to drive through a ghetto.

gameguy6700

But wandering into, then finding your way out of the ghetto is half the fun when exploring new cities.

Good idea. inb4racistDroidPhysX

Why you gotta bring race into this?

People of all colors can be poor.

good idea but there will be a lot of contoversy wehen they actually put it to use.

[QUOTE="DroidPhysX"]Good idea. inb4racistBaconbits2004

Why you gotta bring race into this?

People of all colors can be poor.

As weird as it sounds, that could be pretty useful.

They need an "Avoid jehovah's witness," option too.

Not a bad idea at all.

[QUOTE="Baconbits2004"]

[QUOTE="DroidPhysX"]Good idea. inb4racistDroidPhysX

Why you gotta bring race into this?

People of all colors can be poor.

[QUOTE="MistressMinako"]Ah well, in my experience of living in such a neighborhood and being around in others, as long as you don't mess with others then it's fine. I'm more afraid of middle of nowhere locations.. it's like space... no one can hear you scream. And then they bury you in a big ass field or throw your body down a big ass waterfall while laughing like a villain. SaintWalrus

:lol:

One section of the patent mentioned that advertisers can use the technology to navigate a user through a newly set up ad campaign.

gameguy6700

Oh ya, being rerouted for maximum billboard signage sounds awesome.

[QUOTE="gameguy6700"]

One section of the patent mentioned that advertisers can use the technology to navigate a user through a newly set up ad campaign.

topgunmv

Oh ya, being rerouted for maximum billboard signage sounds awesome.

It also needs a "avoid long red lights" feature too.

Let's be honest, it may not be politically correct, but none of us want to drive through a ghetto.

gameguy6700

/nick Bucked20

Good feature. Nothing like ending up in the wrong part of town.

Good feature. Nothing like ending up in the wrong part of town.

Wasdie

I wonder if it works in Detroit. PS2_ROCKS

people use gps outside of their cars? news to meweezyfb

I can see how it can be looked at as racist but fact of the matter is after being robbed twice in a less than spectacular neighborhood (once by gunpoint) I don't blame them.

This is actually a BRILLIANT idea. I hate it when a GPS takes me through the ghetto.

Sounds like a great idea to me.

Thats stupid. How will I ever find my way home?

I wonder if it works in Detroit. PS2_ROCKS

That's pretty damn amusing.

Whats so scary about driving through the hood? I live in one, not like it means you'll die or something

I approve.

Not a bad idea, but I can't help but wonder if this will worsen, in some small way, the economic condition of ghettos, as the wealthy will have the bias of their device telling them where not to go.majoras_wrath

Whats so scary about driving through the hood? I live in one, not like it means you'll die or something

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