We were driving on the freeway yesterday and a Sheriff’s car passed us. We were joking about talking to him about something and I realized that the technology exists to do that. My iPhone 5 could connect to his phone and all of the other smart cellular phones that were proximate to it. It will take some clever programming and some permissions but the virtual mobile community is about to get much more usable.
Remember back in the 1970’s when CB radio gave truckers and others the chance to talk to each other while on the road. That was the first virtual mobile community adding the smart phone is an extension and up grade of that experience. Have you ever wanted to tell that old guy two cars ahead of you that he has been driving with his turn signal on for 17 miles? With local loop (working name) you can. You can report a crime, discuss the weather, admire a car or thank someone for letting you in. Or just be quiet like people are on the bus.
I envision an opt in service with several levels of connection from listen only to transmit to all. The range would vary from visual in cities to several miles in less dense areas.
With Local Loop you will give up some anonymity but you will gain a virtual and changing community that will be less tolerant of bad behavior. In a neighborhood Local Loop will serve as a virtual neighborhood watch. It will bring neighbors back together with more shared interactions and information.
In a classroom group with Local Loop time and space change. Attendance takes on a different meaning.
This might be the next big killer app.
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Simon, I think that is one of the best ideas you’ve come up with.