Car Security System Uses Bluetooth for Driver Authentication
Auto-txt is a new security system that uses Bluetooth technology for authenticating the driver. People with a Bluetooth-enabled mobile phone could use it to secure their vehicle. Here are some of Auto-txt's features.
Pro-active theft prevention
Full accreditation to Thatcham Category 5
Remote vehicle immobilisation
Innovative driver recognition system using Bluetooth technology
Satellite GPS vehicle tracking
SOC from world leading provider, BT redcare
Integration with onboard vehicle computer systems
Pan-European Coverage
Professional installation by VSIB accredited installers anywhere in the UK
The vehicle will not start unless the owner's phone is used. Wired's Autopia blog suggests an alternative to using a phone.
So now you really have to carry your phone with you, and what happens when you lose your phone? Also, what if your car is stolen with the phone inside? A better solution would be to include a receiver so that you can text message your vehicle with a special code to disable it every time you leave the vehicle. If the car has a GPS system, why not be able to ping it for its location without alerting the thief?
Thieves will find a way around any security system eventually. And people can always lose their keys, phones and passwords. The biggest downside to using bluetooth or similar technology would be hacking concerns but that doesn't mean Auto-txt won't be a useful security tool. It is currently only available in the U.K.
