'Eyes Free' - Apple and the Automakers get “Siri-ous” about Safety
A big problem on the roads today is driver
distraction caused by motorists using a phone or mobile device while behind the
wheel. There seems to be two approaches to this problem: pass laws that
prohibit this behavior or develop technology that allows drivers to use their
mobile devices and keep their attention focused on the road. Automobile
manufacturers have been pursuing the latter, integrating increasingly
sophisticated “hands free” technology into their vehicles that allow drivers to
make calls, send messages and access the internet without having to divert
their attention from the road.
'Hands Free' Tech gives way to 'Eyes
Free' Tech.
A major development in this area was
announced Monday at the annual WWDC conference, when Apple unveiled its 'Eyes Free' vehicle integration system that allows drivers to access Apple's Siri with the
tap of button on the steering wheel.
The 'Eyes Free' system is being
described by Apple and auto manufactures as a safety device. By using 'Eyes
Free', drivers will be able to utilize Siri's voice control features to
access their mobile iOS devices, allowing them to keep their hands on the wheel
and both eyes on the road, hopefully minimizing driver distraction. In addition
to phone calls, the system also simplifies the way drivers access their GPS
systems or select a radio station.
One big difference between Apple’s 'Eyes
Free' and other hand free systems is that 'Eyes Free' works using a driver’s
iPhone or iPad rather than relying on a system that’s built into the
automobile.
Of course, being an Apple product, the 'Eyes Free' button will only operate using an iPhone or other Apple
device equipped with Siri.
Several Automobile Manufacturers are
already onboard.
A surprising number of automobile
manufacturers have already committed to integrating the 'Eyes Free' system into
their 2014 models. These include Audi, BMW, Chrysler, GM, Honda, Mercedes-Benz
and Toyota. The 2013 Cadillac XTS already incorporates some basic Siri software
in GM’s new infotainment system called CUE (Cadillac User Experience). However,
unlike 'Eyes Free' which utilizes cloud technology, CUE is a self contained
system.
Three major manufacturers – Ford, Kia and
Hyundai are passing on the Apple system in favor of their current hands free systems,
which rely on Microsoft technologies.
The Real Test Will Be Out On the
Road.
While transportation safety advocates
approve any effort to make the roads safer, they are concerned that 'Eyes Free' and other similar technologies may still result in potentially dangerous driver
distraction. Regulations have focused on
hand held devices, but there are studies that suggest hands free systems may
pose a similar problem.
The real test of Apple’s new 'Eyes Free' system will be out on the roads when drivers get a chance to use it. Apple
isn’t the first company to come out with hands free – or eyes free –
technology. But given Apple’s knack for producing gadgets that the public loves
and their solid reputation for making their devices as user friendly as possible,
there’s no reason to think they won’t succeed in this endeavor, as well. In addition to making the roads safer, it
could also provide whole new experience for drivers who like to use their
mobile devices inside their cars.
'Eyes
Free' has the possibility to make driving a whole lot more safe – and a whole
lot more fun.
About Author:
Jacob
Lake is an internet content specialist with ScreenTek, a Houston, TX based company
that specializes in providing OEM replacement laptop and iPad digitizer screens.
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