Bird Prototypes Sidewalk Avoidance Feature

Los Angeles-based micromobility provider Bird has added a new feature which attempts to stem the use of its scooters on sidewalks and footpaths, the company said on Wednesday afternoon. According to Bird, it has created a new "smart sidewalk protection" feature for its scooters, which uses wireless communication and positioning technology from u-blox to prevent sidewalk riding in communities. The company said the new system tracks the location of its scooters with "centimeter-level" precision. Bird said it is currently piloting the new technology in Milwaukee and San Diego, and it expects to pilot the technology in Madrid in early 2022.