I have been following the progress of RFID (Radio Frequency IDentification) for a number of years. You may see it under the name ePC ((electronic Product Code), or Auto-ID. It is now about ready to happen and I thought I should alert those who have not yet learned about this amazing new technology.
The idea is to create small chips to broadcast a radio signal imparting a unique identification number. These are very small chips, too large to be called nano-devices, but small enough to be invisible to the naked eye--about the size of a dust particle. These are tough little buggers capable of enduring high pressure, moisture, heat and sunlight. Each chip will cost less than one cent. Before long, a single RFID chip will be embedded into every manufactured item on the planet, giving a number (not a product ID, but a unit ID) for everything--food, clothes, drugs, auto-parts, dollar bills, condoms--everything.
Another element of the plan is to embed receivers or readers in a multitude of devices. We will have refrigerators and pantries that will inventory contents and consult with one another to prepare a shopping list each week. After a quick review of the list by their owner who may add and subtract a few items, the devices will then send the list to the grocery store and replenish supplies and the order will be conveniently delivered.
But this is only one example. Everything will be identifiable. Companies will be able to track each unit of their production, often each part contained in a more complex item. Theft will all but disappear as a social problem. Each unit of currency will be fully traceable. Nothing will be lost. We will soon learn that mysterious location where socks go when we do laundry.
The implications are huge. Privacy advocates are preparing to do battle over this technology. I recommend you become informed about the issues and concerns. You can get a good start here:
Here is an example of current technology using RFID, a Texas Instrument partnership with Timex and ExxonMobile--a wristwatch that automates the process of paying for gasoline:
http://www.e-insite.net/eb-mag/index.asp?layout=article&articleid=CA264143&spacedesc=news
Another Texas Instrument product allows family members to find one another at amusement parks. I guess finding lost children is a little more compelling than finding lost socks.
http://www.ti.com/tiris/docs/news/news_releases/2002/rel11-26-02.shtml
It looks like the Euro will be the first major currency to track paper bills with embedded RFID chips:
http://www.eetimes.com/story/OEG20011219S0016
MasterCard is in a pilot test to see if consumers like using a credit card with an embedded RFID chip. Imagine, a credit card that is constantly broadcasting information that merchants can use to bill you without you ever having to sign a thing, or even remove a card from your wallet.
http://www.informationweek.com/shared/printableArticle?doc_id=IWK20021216S0003
