Australia Becomes First Country To Begin Microchipping Its Public

Although NBC News reported that all Americans would be microchipped by 2017, it appears that Australia will be the first country in the world to start microchipping its citizens.

According to news.com.au, “It may sound like sci-fi, but hundreds of Australians are turning themselves into super-humans who can unlock doors, turn on lights and log into computers with a wave of the hand.”

After receiving two implants under her skin, Shanti Korporaal, from Sydney, has become the focus of media interest. The implants have enabled her to get into her car and to work without carrying keys or a card. She wants to see the chips eventually substitute her wallet and cards.

The microchips, which are about the size of a rice grain, have a great potential – they are similar to a business card and can transfer contact details to smartphones. Plus, they hold complex medical data.

Depending on the sophistication of the technology, it costs between $80 and $140 to get a microchip implanted, and although it can be done at home, it’s recommended that the procedure is carried out by doctors who charge $150 for it.

“They do minor surgery, Botox and so on,” explains Shanti. “They give you a local, an injection and a quick ultrasound to make sure it’s in place.”

Both Shanti and her husband have RFID (radio-frequency identification) chips in their left hands and NFC (near-field communication) chips in the right. The microchips are barely visible, with the entire procedure leaving a mark as tiny as a freckle.

One thing is for sure – microchips provide a range of uses. For instance, microchipping children can help parents know of their location at any time. It also alleviates refugees checking in at camps or shelters.

In addition, it can deliver significant medical data including diet, exercise and sleep data with you and your doctor.