Hey, how fun! A fingerprint scanner that debits your back account! In what might be a clever way to distract drivers from the fact that they're emptying their accounts at the pump, Shell has announced a plan to test biometric systems at Chicago-area gas stations.
Initially, people will scan their prints at a kiosk inside one of the ten participating stations and either provide their bank info on the spot, or do it online. Then, to fill up, drivers will be able to simply scan their fingertips at the pump—the system will automatically charge the amount to their checking or credit-card accounts.—Gregory Mone
Five amazing, clean technologies that will set us free, in this month's energy-focused issue. Also: how to build a better bomb detector, the robotic toys that are raising your children, a human catapult, the world's smallest arcade, and much more.


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