I've seen checks like this done on an ad hoc basis in the past, so what's new is increased use of the tactic. It makes a moderate amount of sense, as such things go, but I'm sure there will be some problems that crop up with people getting to the security line with their phones dead. Or possibly (less likely) their laptops.
(Would be nice if they had a setup with, say, a few standard cables to plug into, just in case.)
Reshared post from +Geeks are Sexy
Passengers flying to the US will need to check their phones and other devices are charged before travelling. New security rules mean devices that won’t switch on will not be allowed on the plane. According to the Department of Homeland Security, the…
Uncharged Cellphones Banned From Flights
Passengers flying to the US will need to check their phones and other devices are charged before travelling. New security rules mean devices that won’t switch on will not be allowed on the plane. A…
When I went on my first international business trip, I was given a laptop to use (I didn't have a laptop at the time). Since the laptop was a hand-me-down, it had a malfunctioning battery and couldn't hold a charge. This was several years before 9/11, but I still remember having to plug the laptop in the wall and turn it on for security.
The one time I ever was asked to boot up my computer (and, yes, before 9/11), the battery had a known problem and I had to find an outlet to plug into.
I carry a small 9 AH USB battery pack with me when I travel.
+James Karaganis A clever idea. Hmmm. Better make sure you don't fully drain it, either.