Winnipeggers - I Can See You

Winnipeg, the world continues to get smaller and smaller. No longer can we enjoy the peace and serenity that comes with escaping the day-to-day grind. Why? Because our every move can be monitored. Drum roll please.... Google Latitude.

"Yes Boss, I am quite busy today on sales calls."
"Really... then why does Google Latitude show that you are at St. Boniface Golf Course?"

Let's try another example:

"Honey, its going to be a late night here at the office. I'll call you when I'm on my way home." Meanwhile, your significant other can see that you are parked at the local tavern, pushing the VLT's.

Yes, thanks to Google Latitude we can now montior an individual using their mobile phone and GPS satellites and cell towers. Of course you have to sign up for the service, but I can already see the family and work arguments emerging.

"Why wouldn't you want me to know where you are dear? Are you hiding something?"
"Mr. Suit don't you understand its important for our business to know that you are using the most efficient routes on your sales calls? You are on sales calls aren't you?"

I think the most disturbing thing I read was people talking about what a great tool it would be for parents to monitor their kids. Great... yet another tool to provide parents the freedom of remote parenting. Just check your cell phone to ensure your child is safe. Drop em off at daycare or school; check their location on your mobile phone every now and then; continue to enjoy your independence. Wow, parenting has never been so easy!

It's hard to say how this new technology will catch on, but with the way the world is moving toward more and more security from nasty terrorists - I'm sure they'll be big corporations to small Winnipeg business pushing this to their employees, and positioning it as "good for the company."

So Winnipeggers, enjoy your last days of freedom because the future of self-monitoring technology is upon us. Next step (which already exists in some companies) is embedding the RFID chip. Press your left temple for the internet - and your right temple for your favorite music selection.

You can no longer escape the grid Winnipeg. Big Brother is here - he's called Google.