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Comment by cglace | Hacker News Reader

What type of information would you receive on your phone during a concert that would make you safer? I'm honestly curious.

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"Hey throwaway43532, [PERSON] just found out you're at [PLACE] and is on their way with a weapon. I contacted the authorities, but you need to get out of there now!" might be a severe example.

There are many situations where a cell phone can allow you to send or receive information that could tip the scales in your favor.

The possibility of me ever getting a message remotely like that is so remote that the very idea could power the infinite improbability drive and take me to the restaurant at the end of the universe.

If you live inside a Hollywood action movie, yes.

"hey the dangerous stalker you have had since 5 years found out you are going to this concert."

Does it still sound like hollywood?

Yes it does.

Is the audience one person?

Translation: I'm unwilling to put down my phone, and I will conjure any number of nightmare scenarios to justify my addiction.

Or, perhaps, some people are truly terrified to be away from their smartphones. That is itself a scary thought.

If a person's smartphone is removed from the picture for some reason, how would they be able to function? If the cell network went down, would the crowd descend into mindless chaos? There are no more pay phones, no more cozy landlines, so how would people manage if there were an emergency?

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