Twenty Thousand Hertz

Ultrasonic Tracking: Are our phones really listening to us?

May 14, 2018
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INSIGHT

Ultrasonic Tracking Basics

  • Ultrasonic tracking transmits data through sound, often inaudible to most adults.
  • Apps with microphone access can use this to gather data about user habits and location.
ANECDOTE

Shopkick in Retail

  • Shopkick's ultrasonic beacons are used in retail stores for rewards programs.
  • Macy's uses Shopkick's technology, but their specific application is unclear.
INSIGHT

Big Data and Inferences

  • Big data is the main goal behind these tracking methods, not just rewards programs.
  • Data collected can infer personal details like sexuality, politics, and potentially mental health.
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