Smartphone breathalyzer could save a DUI

If you've ever wondered whether you've had too many and should hail a cab, there will soon be an app for that. A forthcoming Android and iPhone accessory promises to transform smartphones into a portable breathalyzer that's compact enough to be carried on a keychain.

Breathometer, Inc. today kicked off an IndieGogo crowdfunding campaign to produce the device, which the company anticipates will ship as soon as this summer. Project supporters who invest US$20 and above into product development will receive a free unit by January 2014. The more that's pledged, the sooner it ships.

"By using Breathometer, you now have the ability to help prevent accidents. We're also building some other amazing features like a push of a button cab service," Breathometer notes on its Web site. The companion app also tracks your history in a private on-client database.

See here for a promotional video (wherein your date apparently will laugh at you for using this product).

Breathalyzers aren't the only medical devices that are surfacing on smart phones. Last month, an Indian biotech company said that it wants to replace costly medical equipment that medical centers use for urinalysis with a smartphone app, and conceivably, home test kits - broadening and advancing the mobile health market.

(image credit: Breathometer)

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• Urinalysis by smartphone

This post was originally published on Smartplanet.com