It’s for a free online tool that “uses data to help fight climate change”. But some critics say Google is helping to create the problem it’s helping to fight.
Presented in a red folder, SYSTEMS is a rummage of artworks, essays, maps, interviews, and toolkits that interrogates the often invisible systems that shape our everyday life.
Landlords are left to self-regulate their use of the tenants’ data hoovered up through the apps and systems in big rental complexes – unless someone brings a complaint to the Data Protection Commission.
Delivery cyclists say it nudges them to deliver to unsafe areas, and has undermined attempts to strike for better conditions. A spokesperson for Deliveroo said safety of riders is an “absolute priority” and it supports their right to express themselves by not working.
Smart Dublin is an unusual beast within the council, given its remit to partner with tech companies and other private players on challenges affecting the city.
The cameras are just one example of how those behind plans for co-living complexes want to ramp up their use of tech, with smartphone apps for services, and smart CCTV systems.
At the moment, it’s using software from the company Siren to monitor and manage its IT systems, said a spokesperson. But it’s considering whether to use it for more.
Greater engagement? That’s welcome, says Lorcan Sirr, a housing lecturer at TU Dublin. But the council’s enthusiasm for trialling an app developed by a property-industry PR executive is worrying, he says.
