this post was submitted on 04 Sep 2025
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WiFi signals can measure heart rate—no wearables needed (news.ucsc.edu)
submitted 3 days ago by RegularJoe@lemmy.world to c/technology@lemmy.world
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[–] sturger@sh.itjust.works 2 points 2 days ago (1 children)

I would actually install the vendor’s phone app if they built in this functionality instead of having these terminals.
I think you’re right, but I dread it. I avoid installing apps. The thought of installing even more tracking for multiple vendors annoys me.
Although I am resistant, your point about bagging once is a true benefit.
One downside, that system doesn’t seem to support cash.

[–] JoshuaFalken@lemmy.world 2 points 2 days ago (1 children)

I didn't give the privacy concern much thought in the moment, mainly thinking how useless and poorly designed those apps usually are, but I do agree.

Considering it now, I do have loyalty cards in my company vehicle for certain things, primarily fuel, and those of course remain in that vehicle as they serve no other purpose. Perhaps keeping an old phone for purposes of doing this scanning thing might be ideal. Though ideally I'd imagine a few dedicated handheld terminals kept in store for redundancy purposes.

Speaking of redundancy, you're right about paying in cash. Perhaps as easy as a 'cash' button and it would send the purchase total to a customer service desk. Around here, all grocers have a 'cashier' desk where you get lottery tickets and gift cards and such.

Though it would be funny to see these handheld terminals have a compartment to accept notes and coins haha.

[–] sturger@sh.itjust.works 2 points 1 day ago

Perhaps keeping an old phone for purposes of doing this scanning thing might be ideal.
That’s an excellent idea!

all grocers have a ‘cashier’ desk where you get lottery tickets.
Ha! Great observation. There’s no way in hell stores are going to give up on gambling cash. :-)