Useless tech

Can someone explain what's up with people wanting to add technology to a problem that's (a) non existent or (b) been solved artfully and simply decades ago?

Take this for example: It's SEIL, pictured above, a backpack for cyclists with light-up turn and stop indicators.

We need SEIL right away, right now for all the cyclists. The sensational concept by designer Lee Myung Su gives cyclists an ability to indicate which way they would be turning while cycling on busy streets ruled by thoroughly callous four wheelers. Safe Enjoy Interact Light (SEIL) comprises of two components: a backpack equipped with LEDs and a detachable wireless controller that can be mounted on the handlebar. The rider simply touches the controller to indicate the desired direction, left or right or simply stopping, which simultaneously gets flashed on the backpack.

- From the Design Blog website.

Despite the site's demanding, "we need SEIL right away, right now for all the cyclists", I would argue that we do not. Why do we need lights, batteries, and other consumables to replace three or four simple hand/arm gestures? This goes against the reasons many of us cycle: to harness human power and to interact simply with the world.

Add this useless technology to a growing list: the kettle that beeps when it boils even though steam can power a whistle or the toaster that beeps before your toast pops up.

What happens when we add layer after useless layer of tech on top of simple human activities? Why does everything need an array of LEDs or an electronic beep or a built-in GPS? What sort of mindset develops when these become commonplace?

Okay, okay, I'll


now.

P.S. "Safe Enjoy Interact Light"?!