As reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, eight people are killed every day in crashes that center around distracted driving. To help lower this number, Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:$AAPL) revealed that iOS 11, the updated software for Apple mobile devices, will have a new feature called “Do Not Disturb While Driving”.
The purpose of this feature is to rid the urge to look at text messages while driving. How will it work? If a phone is connected to a car either through Bluetooth or a cable, or if the car itself is moving, the mobile device will keep notifications like text messages or news updates from appearing on the screen.
A number of people admit to texting and driving but they tend to use the excuse of that it was important and that they needed to respond as soon as possible. Apple’s new iPhone feature will solve this problem. If someone does message you while you are driving, your phone will send an automatic response which informs the recipient that you are driving and are unable to respond.
Not only that, but the iPhone screen will lock so drivers are unable to use apps while driving such as Snapchat or Instagram. However, don’t fret passengers, you’ll still be able to Snapchat in the car! If you are just going along for the ride, you will be able to make it known that you are not driving and can then disable the feature.
Though drivers will still be able to use Apple Maps, they will not be able to physically input locations. Google Maps, which is another top navigation app, will also work while driving, but not as easily as it does with iOS 10.
Apple CarPlay will still work with the update, so long as the car has it. Apple CarPlay is a feature that allows drivers to both hear and respond to messages through voice commands. You can also use a number of apps, such as Apple Maps and Google Maps while driving via voice commands. Apple CarPlay is available in a variety of cars, including those from General Motors (TSE:$GMM.U), Fiat Chrysler (BIT:$FCA), BMW (ETR:$BMW), and Honda (TYO:$7267). The feature can also work through a computer screen that sits in the car.
Another attempt to prevent drivers from becoming distracted from notifications on their phones will come from Nissan Motor Company Ltd. (TYO:$7201). The Japan-based company has suggested adding a ‘Faraday’ cage to their cars. Essentially the cage would be a built in a box that blocks radio transmissions from reaching the mobile device.
Featured Image: twitter
