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Using Bluetooth To Disable Camera Phones |
axxxr
Joined: Mar 21, 2003
Posts: > 500
From: Londinium
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Here's a possible solution to the problem of camera-phone voyeurs.
VOYEURISM, invasion of privacy and confidential information leaks – these are just some problems that have arisen from the use of camera-phones.
But now, with the help of bluetooth technology and three savvy Temasek Polytechnic students, these problems may just be solved.
Mr Soon Wei Kang, 23, one of the designers of software that can disable the camera function of such phones, explained: “An application is loaded into the cellphone and if the owner enters within the range of the bluetooth device, we can control its camera function.”
Theoretically, the range of control is up to 100 metres, depending on the power of the bluetooth device.
“We can choose to restrict the activation of the camera or leave it alone within the range,” he added.
Other functions of the phone would work normally.
“This technology is useful in places where confidentiality is paramount, such as on military grounds, where visitors are not allowed to bring in their cellphones,” said Mr Lu Qian, 21.
Instead of banning such phones and inconveniencing their owners, the camera can be made non-functional instead.
The software has so far been successfully tested only with Nokia 6600 and 7210 bluetooth phones. It failed with a Nokia 7650 model.
The software can be disabled to restore the camera function but the procedure is very complex.
The three designers, who hope to iron out the bugs later, yesterday received a Commendation Award at the poly’s Engineering Project Show, where their prototype was unveiled.
By Lee Choo Kiong
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Cophia
Joined: Jul 22, 2002
Posts: > 500
From: Sydney
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That's a novel approach to the problem!
However, not all camera phones support Bluetooth, and users may not want to have it switched on permanently for battery saving etc. And some countries (such as in the Middle East) do not allow the use of Bluetooth, disabling it's function from the operator's SIM.
Maybe this will be overcome when we adopt 4g phones in the future.
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Jim
Joined: Jan 20, 2002
Posts: > 500
From: Belgium
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Yeah it seems very limited and the range should be of +- 10 meters, it's a good try although  |
Gigs
Joined: Jan 19, 2004
Posts: > 500
From: The planet Snibertron!
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maybe is a cuning way to develop bluetooth emp weapons.. detects the phone phone dead.
Will make sure the camera doesn't work  |
switchbitch
Joined: Apr 29, 2003
Posts: > 500
From: ELF Pap Cop (Avatar pending)
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I had this exact idea ages ago. Im searching for my thread on the subject. These bams stole my idea!
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mince-inside
Joined: May 09, 2004
Posts: 452
From: Made in Alnwick living in Scot
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Surely you just disable the bluetooth on your phone and the camera will still work!?
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switchbitch
Joined: Apr 29, 2003
Posts: > 500
From: ELF Pap Cop (Avatar pending)
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Yeh my idea also suggested a gsm based "jamming" transmission, instructing any phones in the area to disable the camera. Like bluetooth, but more reliable.
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methylated_spirit
Joined: Jul 07, 2004
Posts: > 500
From: Bonnie Scotland
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NO MORE FLY PICTURES UP LADIES SKIRTS THEN (SOB) oops, capslock
Hello, Scroto!
U.G.L.Y. You ain't got no alibi, you ugly! |
Ayush
Joined: Sep 12, 2003
Posts: > 500
From: Hyderabad, india
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What about non smart phones?
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Posted: 2004-09-10 00:43
