Gadgetory

hi this is Ryan Bennett for cnet.com and right now we're taking a first look at the BACtrack mobile breathalyzer okay I know what you're thinking you're probably asking why would I want to buy a personal breathalyzer especially one that talks to my smartphone I admit I was skeptical at first as well and the backtracks high one $49.99 sticker price doesn't help what this gadget promises to offer however is a law enforcement caliber breath alcohol sensor squeezed into a high-tech and compact package the backtrack also connects to iOS devices wirelessly over Bluetooth connection through its companion iPhone app you can view breathalyzer results in the traditional value of blood alcohol content percentage commonly referred to as BAC the app also spells out BAC readings in detailed explanations of how specific values typically affect behavior plus mental and physical acuity another neat trick the backtrack does is project the time it will take until you'll likely be sober based on your last reading you can store your readings on your phone in the cloud or remain completely anonymous by discarding results after each measurement the backtrack even lets you share readings over social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter if you don't find that notion particularly disturbing how about pushing your location BAC level and timestamp data to other backtrack app users well the backtrack does that to the backtrack unit itself is lightweight and small enough to fit in the palm of your hand it comes with its own handy protective case as well the device just has one button for powering it up and initiating pairing mode sexy blue LEDs glow and flash to indicate power and connection status once paired just tap the screen to begin the measurement process blow into the mouthpiece for a few seconds then wait a few more for the results to check BAC levels of friends the backtrack comes equipped with plastic tips so others won't feel grossed out by your cooties as a New York native and one who doesn't drive often owning a product like this probably isn't worth it if you're addicted to your car or live in more suburban or rural regions and arns a teetotaler then the BACtrack is worth a look it could help you avoid over indulging and drink more responsibly or at least wisely call a cab if that's what needs to happen I'm Brian Bennett for cnet.com and this has been a first look at the BACtrack mobile breathalyzer be sure to check back soon for a full review