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I've never heard of Yondr before but, wow, what a delightful little technological window into today's burgeoning economic disparity. An entire company whose bus

I've never heard of Yondr before but, wow, what a delightful little technological window into today's burgeoning economic disparity. An entire company whose business model revolves around helping rich people hide their recreation from public view because they don't want the shame of their consumption being a little too conspicuous. I assume the next natural evolution is a photo-sharing social network that only ultra-high-net wealth individuals are allowed to enter. That way you can still "Instagram" your life, but just to the other ultra-rich tech bros and Saudi royalty at your economic level. Now that I think about it, I wouldn't be surprised if this already exists.

jdsully 7y ago
I don't think that's an accurate description of why Yondr exists. The impetus for solutions like that were to allow for things like phone free concerts. You don't have to be rich to be annoyed with someone blocking your view holding their phone in the air.
- munificent 7y ago
  Sure, I think that's a valid good use case. But I honestly have a hard time believing there's enough demand for that to support an actual enforced technological solution. Maybe I'm wrong but I find it hard to believe stand-up comedians and musicians who want the audience to be in the moment are enough to keep this business afloat. I think it's more likely for things like: https://www.businessinsider.com/trump-clint-lorance-mathew-goldsteyn-florida-statesman-dinner-miami-herald-2019-12 https://www.businessinsider.com/trump-clint-lorance-mathew-g...
  - jdsully 7y ago
    The startup economy is all about forcing a technological solution whether theres demand for it or not. VC funding can make up for a lot. Its much more likely they’re another zombie tech company than part of a sinister plot for rich people.
ipython 7y ago
There’s about zero chance I would ever attend an event where I had to surrender my autonomy in that way. What if an emergency happens and you need to call 911? Is my safety less important than some vain attempt at reducing “leaks” or some fear that your precious event will be broadcast unauthorized? No thank you.

jdsully 7y ago

I don't think that's an accurate description of why Yondr exists. The impetus for solutions like that were to allow for things like phone free concerts. You don't have to be rich to be annoyed with someone blocking your view holding their phone in the air.

munificent 7y ago
Sure, I think that's a valid good use case. But I honestly have a hard time believing there's enough demand for that to support an actual enforced technological solution. Maybe I'm wrong but I find it hard to believe stand-up comedians and musicians who want the audience to be in the moment are enough to keep this business afloat. I think it's more likely for things like: https://www.businessinsider.com/trump-clint-lorance-mathew-goldsteyn-florida-statesman-dinner-miami-herald-2019-12 https://www.businessinsider.com/trump-clint-lorance-mathew-g...
- jdsully 7y ago
  The startup economy is all about forcing a technological solution whether theres demand for it or not. VC funding can make up for a lot. Its much more likely they’re another zombie tech company than part of a sinister plot for rich people.

ipython 7y ago

There’s about zero chance I would ever attend an event where I had to surrender my autonomy in that way. What if an emergency happens and you need to call 911? Is my safety less important than some vain attempt at reducing “leaks” or some fear that your precious event will be broadcast unauthorized? No thank you.