DrinkMate is a small breathalyzer that connects to the smartphone; and it’s currently raising funds at Kickstarter.

The 1.8-inch long device plugs into a powered Micro-USB port and, when connected to its companion app, displays a blood alcohol content (BAC) rating after the user has breathed over its sensor. DrinkMate doesn’t have a mouthpiece of its own, but that doesn’t matter. In order to get you BAC readings, you can simply blow into an air inlet, which keeps the device compact and hygienic.

According to the project authors, DrinkMate can deliver BAC measurement levels at an accuracy of +/- 0.01% BAC at a BAC of 0.02%. The built-in sensor maxes out at 0.20% BAC but if you’re that drunk, you won’t be needing this device, anyway.

Alas, it’s unclear how DrinkMate’s performance holds up in real world environments when users may not be following best practice testing procedure.

If that’s not something you’re concerned with, you are free to secure your unit for as little as $25. DrinkMate has been tested with a number of popular smartphones, including the Samsung Galaxy S3, S4, and S5; Samsung Galaxy Note 3; HTC One; Motorola Moto X; Asus Transformer Prime and Infinity. The iPhone version will likely follow in the near future.

DrinkMate is looking to raise $40,000 and as I’m writing this, they have already managed to surpass that goal.

[Via: TechCrunch]