All these behavioral data are stored for future historical analyses in order to improve the prediction model. If the user normally restrains the volume of his or her voice, then sudden excessive shouting may indicate a “psychosocial event.” Alternatively, the behavior could be assessed in relation to a “feature distribution representing normal and/or acceptable behavior for an average member of a population… a statistically significant deviation from that behavior baseline indicates a number of possible psychological events.” The initial proposition is that in the event of an anomaly, the device would alert “trusted individuals” such as family members, doctors, and caregivers. But the circle widens as the patent specifications unfold. The scientists note the utility of alerts for health care providers, insurance companies, and law-enforcement personnel. Here is a new surveillance-as-a-service opportunity geared to preempt whatever behavior clients choose.

Shoshana Zuboff, The Age of Surveillance Cap…, loc. 1314