Using Bluetooth beacons to pay for metro tickets: A case study in user control of ubiquitous computing

Abstract

This master's thesis investigates the users' understanding, use and perception of control in ubiquitous and context-aware systems. An Android prototype was developed and tested with users. The prototype scanned for Bluetooth beacons and automatically purchased a metro ticket when a beacon was within close range. Automation of tasks aided by beacons was found to be fairly liberating, however, the participants felt unease when money was involved and felt they needed a higher degree of control. The application prompting the user to confirm the ticket purchase was preferred over an option to cancel an already purchased ticket. This thesis concludes that the transition to an environment of ubiquitous computing systems needs to be exactly that - a transition. Until the users can get accustomed to the technology and automation, a fair bit of user control is still desired, at least when automating monetary operations.