Showing posts with label tech this out. Show all posts
Showing posts with label tech this out. Show all posts

Tech This Out: 3 Good 2-Way Dash Cams for Ultimate Security! + Rideshare "Secure Ride"?

In a world where split-second decisions on the road can make or break your day, having a dash cam that records both inside and out isn’t just nice-to-have—it’s peace of mind on a memory card when you aren't using a service. Whether you’re an everyday commuter or a rideshare pro, two-way recording covers vital angles.

 Three Standouts in Dual-Channel Protection 




 For the Average Driver: Proof When You Need It 

Imagine cruising down the highway when a tailgater suddenly swerves into your lane. Without evidence, you’re stuck in a you-said-they-said scenario and insurance scams are real! With a two-way cam, you not only capture the culprit’s license plate and reckless maneuvers, but also your own car’s interior—proving you weren’t distracted or speeding.

That crystal-clear footage can be the difference between paying a deductible or walking away financially unscathed. In insurance disputes or traffic court, having unedited video from both cameras rewrites the narrative in your favor. No more finger-pointing—just irrefutable proof... of what really went down.

 The Rideshare Shield: Drivers and Passengers Covered 

Rideshare life comes with its own set of variables. One moment you’re on a smooth trip, the next you’re dodging aggressive drivers or dealing with unruly passengers. A two-way dash cam acts like a digital witness, logging every interaction in the cabin and on the road.

  • Protect yourself against reckless drivers who cut you off, run red lights, or weave through traffic.
  • Document disrespectful or dangerous passenger behavior—preventing false allegations or verbal you-said-they-said. On the flipside, it would help riders too (see below).
  • Evidence can also be used to pluck reckless rideshare riders as well, because if they're willing to risk their life on the road a passenger's safety is on the line.

 Implementing a “Secure Ride” Feature 

Here’s a game-changer: what if your rideshare app offered a “Secure Ride” option? Partnering with camera makers, companies could subsidize or give free dash cams to drivers—and top-off fares with a $3 incentive per "Secure Ride" that goes... directly to drivers, not the platform.

Passengers can opt into “Secure Ride” while ordering the rideshare. The cameras record only while the ride is active and automatically stops when the ride is completed. No one’s forced to live under constant surveillance, but people are usually on their best behavior when the camera is rolling.

  • Women may find solace in the option being available.
  • Parents can breathe easier when teens need a ride.
  • Adults could use this option for inebriated friends who need to get home safely.
  • Family might enjoy this option for their elderly loved ones seeking transport.

Despite "Secure Ride" not being selected, an emergency mode could kick in if a crash, assault, or heated argument is detected—capturing those critical moments before, during, and after an incident. This not only deters misconduct but also slashes potential lawsuits for platforms like... Uber and Lyft, reinforcing trust in the companies to a degree.

Two-way dash cams aren’t just gadgets; they’re your advocate on the asphalt. From everyday commuters to full-time rideshare drivers, these cameras turn chaos into clarity—one secure ride at a time. Should rideshare companies consider a "Secure Ride" option? I think so, especially when you think about reported sexual assaults and attacks. Regardless of what companies do, drivers are better off with dash cams because its the investment that keeps on giving. Tech to the rescue!




Illustration of Blu with headphones and sunglasses.
 + Sophi 

Tech This Out: The Steam Brick - A Glimpse into the Future of Portable VR Gaming for Valve?

Steam Brick

The Steam Brick doesn't look like much on the surface, but when I saw that the creator was able to plug in the Xreal Air 2 Pro AR glasses to his Steam Brick device, which is a modified version of Valve's Steam Deck with no screen, it made my mind wander. Sure, you have to Bluetooth a controller to the Steam Brick, but this essentially makes it possible for Valve to create their own portable VR headset. If they decide to do such a thing as a result of Crastinator's concept, I think they should bring him on board to help bring it to life. Then all you would have to do is connect your standard controller to it or VR controls minus all the cords. It's not set in stone since the glasses would have to be up to par, but this is a great start to something amazing in my opinion.

Justin Diaz from Android Headlines brought mod creator Crastinator's concept to light. The Steam Brick is a smaller, lighter version of the Steam Deck, designed for enhanced portability. By removing the screen and built-in controllers, Crastinator created a device that is about a third of the size of the original Steam Deck and approximately 24% lighter. This makes it much easier to carry around, especially for those who travel frequently.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Steam Brick is its potential for portable VR gaming. By connecting the Xreal Air 2 Pro AR glasses and a Bluetooth controller, users can enjoy a fully immersive gaming experience without the need for a traditional screen. This opens up the possibility for Valve to develop their own portable VR headset, inspired by Crastinator's innovative concept.

Imagine a future where all you need is a compact device like the Steam Brick, a pair of high-quality AR glasses, and a wireless controller to dive into your favorite games. No more bulky setups or tangled cords—just seamless, immersive gaming on the go. While the technology isn't quite there yet, Crastinator's Steam Brick is a promising step in the right direction.

If Valve decides to pursue this idea, they should definitely consider bringing Crastinator on board to help bring it to life. His ingenuity and creativity have already shown what can be achieved with a bit of imagination and technical know-how. The Steam Brick may not be perfect, but it's a fantastic starting point for something truly groundbreaking.


For more details on the Steam Brick and Crastinator's process, check out the full article by Justin Diaz on Android Headlines here.


 + Blu 

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