Uber has applied to patent A.I. that can identify drunk passengers. This technology could create better, more comfortable situations for its customers and its drivers.
This is very relevant because at least 103 Uber drivers in the United States in the past four years have been accused of sexually assaulting or abusing their passengers. Many reports involve passengers who were drunk or consumed alcohol before they got inside the Uber, according to CNN.
This artificial intelligence paired with more intensive background checks by Uber could make rides with strangers safer. Uber’s patent application describes an A.I. that analyzes how you personally and usually use the app, making it possible for it to notice when you’re acting unusual.
Examples of things the A.I. will use to determine whether you are drunk is typos, clicking precision for buttons and links, walking speed and the duration of how long it takes for you to request a ride once you open the app.
The artificial intelligence will also use your location and the time of day to consider possible drunkenness. So if you are out very late at night on the weekend and you’re requesting an Uber to pick you up from an area filled with bars and clubs, then the A.I. system will probably assume you are drunk or have been drinking.
Also, if this system is incorporated, then passengers may not be able to partake in a shared ride based on their state. This seems slightly reasonable but it can be argued that riding with friends or multiple people makes passengers feel safer than just riding in an Uber alone. Though it seems this A.I. will prioritize safety and that’s very important as that has always been a concern with using Uber.
Also, some customers may be a little nervous about Uber and its A.I. knowing how drunk you are and get. It will be interesting to see how this A.I. changes Uber’s reputation.
