MS launches the on{X} project, be worried

When I read the news on Engadget about this project, I thought “Oh my G… finally a useful application what will facilitate my life“.

Think about it, a phone that could automatically send a text message to my wife letting her know I am on my way, reminds me to buy milk or simply alert me depending on the weather forecast… basically a phone smart enough to “adapt” to my needs, that is impressive and smart.

Then I carefully watched the video (available below) and the wouah factor was multiply by the fact that the recipes were not limited to what Microsoft already thought about but virtually anything you may need as all the pre-written recipes can be modified and you can also (if you know JavaScript) decide to use Microsoft API to develop and share your own.

Everything seemed to be perfect but then came the “OMG Effect!!!! What the H…“. Think about it! Think more and think again!

1. First of all, this tool would ONLY work if you use your Facebook account.
2. Second, when you read the recipes you realize that it would mean that Microsoft/FB know in real time where you are
3. They know if you run, drive, walk, stand steel or who knows what
4. Because it can control app,it can potentially read your SMS, your contacts, know your music…
5. They would automatically associate this information with your profile

Now they release it first to Android. Weird, no? Not at all! Android has the biggest user base and doing this they have a better chance to collect as much information as quickly as possible.

Imagine for a second, you and a friend of yours have a smartphone, both Android and both with the on{X} application installed on your devices. So far you would say what’s the big deal… Now you have a recipe set up to inform your wife automatically when you leave the office. But this evening you want to call your friend and have a drink before going home.You call your friend, don’t say a word to your wife (first mistake), leave the office (message automatically sent to your sweet), meet your friend, have a beer, a second one, talk a bit, miss your wife call because you’re still not home (second mistake), decide to finally have a last drink before living and finally leave to go home. Fortunately you did not meet a babe this evening.

Not only the on{X} would have put you in trouble as sometimes no information is better than a bad one but also the couple Microsoft/Facebook, would know where you were, with whom (as the app is on both devices) how long you stayed there…

Now, like always, it is up to you to decide if privacy is more important for you than functionality. In my case, there is no way I create a FB account just to have the pleasure to play in this kitchen.

Feel free to share your opinion and let me know what you think about this project.

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