Who stops and looks for a physical departures board in 2026? I already know the gate I'm going to because I've had ample time to check my smartphone while I'm waiting for all the carry-on maximalists to get their oversized roller AND stuffed "personal item" backpack from the overhead bins. ;)
I think you've understated/missed some of the aspects of flying itself, but probably not necessary to litigate it further. There's also all the stuff at the destination that the smartphone has enabled, eg
- rental cars with carplay
- walking directions on a paired smartwatch
- transit pass via NFC (and transit-specific directions)
- checking into accomodations (airbnb-type places especially)
- authenticating Netflix, etc on tv at your airbnb/hotel
- bike-sharing apps
- activity passes in your digital wallet
Who stops and looks for a physical departures board in 2026? I already know the gate I'm going to because I've had ample time to check my smartphone while I'm waiting for all the carry-on maximalists to get their oversized roller AND stuffed "personal item" backpack from the overhead bins. ;)
I think you've understated/missed some of the aspects of flying itself, but probably not necessary to litigate it further. There's also all the stuff at the destination that the smartphone has enabled, eg - rental cars with carplay - walking directions on a paired smartwatch - transit pass via NFC (and transit-specific directions) - checking into accomodations (airbnb-type places especially) - authenticating Netflix, etc on tv at your airbnb/hotel - bike-sharing apps - activity passes in your digital wallet