Uber: new software can tell if you’re drunk

For many city-dwellers, ride-hailing service Uber is a lifeline
after a night out, when public transport is out of service or
simply unappealing.

However, a patent recently filed by the company reveals that new
technology could enable Uber to identify intoxicated users and
provide them with a reduced service – or no service at all.

The application filed by Uber with the United States Patent and
Trademark Office describes a system that would measure what it
calls the “state” of customers using the app.

However, a close look indicates that “what Uber is really
interested in is detecting the difference between users of sound
mind and users who are under the influence”, says TechCrunch.

So what clues would be a giveaway? Boozers could out themselves
by “making typos, not precisely clicking on links and buttons, the
way they are holding their phone, their walking speed and how long
it takes to request a ride”, says The Daily Telegraph.

“Riders in a particularly unusual state may be matched with
drivers who have special training or expertise, or may not be
provided service at all,” TechCrunch reports.

The patent adds that users judged to be drunk could be barred
from pooling with other customers, or could have their pick-up or
drop-off points changed to a safer location.

The app’s high volume of intoxicated passengers has raised
concerns about the safety of drivers and passengers alike.

“From February 2016 to February 2017, there were 48 alleged sex
attacks by Uber drivers reported to the police in London,” says
The New Statesman. Similar scandals have dogged
the service in the US, Europe and India.