New Apple update encourages drivers to put their phones down behind the wheel

Published on 20 September, 2017

The iPhone will be able to detect when a car is moving and will automatically silence notifications and show a blank screen if you try to look at the phone while in motion.

Overview

Apple introduce new driver safety features with iOS11

The latest Apple software update (available from today) will include a new ‘Do Not Disturb While Driving’ function. The iPhone will be able to detect when a car is moving and will automatically silence notifications and show a blank screen if you try to look at the phone while in motion. It will also allow you to trigger automatic replies to a list of favourites, explaining that you are driving and will reply to their text when you have arrived safely. There will be an option for them to reply ‘urgent’, if they really need to get in touch. The function may be dismissed if you confirm that you are just a passenger.

The maps app has also been updated to include lane guidance to alert drivers to which lane they should be in in advance while using the navigation function on Apple CarPlay.

The update shows a commendable commitment to road safety, and they are not the only company encouraging people to put the phones down while behind the wheel. Earlier in the year, the Irish Road Safety Authority teamed up with Toyota Ireland and Topaz to develop the ‘Face it down’ App. This allows drivers to build up points for not looking at their phone while driving, which they can then redeem for hot drinks in Topaz stores. You can download it here >> http://bit.ly/2yoLrg1

Sinead McCann

Sinéad is our resident car tester who has the unenviable (-ok, slightly enviable) task of reviewing all the latest new cars to hit the market. You can follow her on Twitter @smcani and on Instagram @whatshedrives