PSA: The TSA now requires proof of powered-on devices before boarding some flights
As stressful as it already is measuring out liquids and baby formula for an upcoming flight, you’ll now want to make sure your smartphone or tablet is full juiced before hitting the airport. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced over the weekend that some flights coming into the US could be subject to additional smartphone or device security screening (outside of the normal x-ray scan), meaning the device will need to be powered on to ensure it’s safe for travel.
Apparently this could have something to do with the possibility of explosive devices being hidden inside popular electronic devices like smartphones or tablets. While this could be a huge inconvenience for anyone playing their favorite game on a flight, only to realize they’ve exhausted their battery supply — it’s all in the name of safety.
Unsurprisingly, the TSA didn’t offer any further details, like specifically which flights from where would be subject to the additional screening. If you thought dumping that expensive bottle of shampoo was painful enough, how about being forced to leave behind your shiny new Galaxy S5 because it wouldn’t power on?
[TSA]