CDA
March 9, 2023
In pursuit of road safety, Google is working on a technology to block your mobile devices while you drive.
The use of technological devices while driving increases the risk of an accident behind the wheel. Despite the fact that smartphones have specific profiles and settings for driving, Google believes that the use of mobile terminals should be restricted when one is driving the car.
The company explains, in a new patent, that these “wearables” should only provide navigation information to the driver and block all other features to reduce distractions.
Only navigation could work
Android Auto
The new technology, called “systems, devices and methods for controlling the operation of wearable screens while driving vehicles”, covers a wide range of products, including smart glasses and smartwatches.
According to the patent, through integrated sensors, a central system could determine if the user is controlling a vehicle (cars, motorcycles, bicycles and even helicopters). When the vehicle starts to move, the sensors transmit that data to the system, which restrict screen access automaticallypreventing the use of these devices until the car stops.
Voice commands will allow users to interact withon their devices when the screens are locked. This approach is already available in Android Auto, for example, where certain functions, including the keyboard, are blocked when the vehicle is in motion.
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Drivers can still control navigation software or music playback with voice commands, being able to change songs, set a new destination or make phone calls without touching the screen.
Of course, the user can bypass the restrictions described in the patent when necessary. The method can include various options, such as a long press on a certain button to disable restrictions and allow normal use of the device.
Previous studies have shown the danger of using mobile phones and driving, and that even infotainment systems can become a source of distractionsince drivers tend to look at the screen in search of information about navigation or music.
