The UK government wants mobile manufacturers to include a “drive safe” mode as standard, to prevent distractions behind the wheel.
According to a report in The Guardian, ministers want an Airplane Mode-like software solution, with exceptions that enabler drivers to make emergency calls or accept them from certain people.
The report says the government is mulling a suggestion that the phone’s built-in GPS technology be used to disable communications when the driver hits a certain speed.
Talks will reportedly take place at Whitehall next week, before the pleas are made to mobile manufacturers.
The plans are the latest attempt to reduce smartphone use while driving.
The meeting will “consider safe drive modes, or other practical applications, when a person is driving,” according to transport minister Lord Ahmad.
Related: Apple CarPlay vs Android Auto
While the talks are well intentioned, the likes of Apple and Google will surely argue that they already have driver-safe measures in play with CarPlay and Android Auto.
Both are designed to negate the need to pick up a phone while driving.
However, the former requires a new compatible vehicle or an expensive after-market head unit. Google recently announced it was releasing the Android Auto app for all users, presenting the interface right on the smartphone screen, rather than requiring an external display.
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Do you think such measures are necessary to stop UK drivers messing with their phones while driving? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.