March 24, 2008 – We all know that cell phones we originally designed just to make calls. Remember those brick phones like Zach had on Saved by the Bell? Who would have every imagined that one day cell phones would be so much smaller and yet to tightly packed with features? Now, it seems, cell phones are even becoming equipped with the technology to tell if a person is drunk. According to ABC News, cell phones with built in breathalyzer test are set to hit the US market soon. Just imagine all the lives that could be saved if individuals were equipped with a means to test themselves to see if they were fit to drive. Of course, not everyone would take advantage, but even if just a few did, it could make a real difference.

South Korean LG manufacturers have already put a few models equipped with breathalyzers on the market and they have been greeted with much interest from the public. Already, LG has sold over 200,000 handsets. Also in production are plug-ins for some phones that will allow them to become breathalyzer phones as well.

All users have to do to test themselves is blow onto a small spot on the phone equipped with a sensor. If they have had enough to drink the phone issues a warning and displays a car weaving on the road hitting several traffic cones.

Another interesting thing about these new handsets are the other features that keep you from making embarrassing decisions while you are under the influence. There is a lock that can be set up as well so that users cannot dial certain numbers on certain nights or after a certain time. Since a lot of people make embarrassing phone calls when they are under the influence (calling ex-boyfriends/girlfriends), this might be a way to avoid such situations if you know you are prone to them. If the user’s blood alcohol level is over .08, the phone will not dial the preselected numbers.

Source: Abcnews.go.com