There can't be many hold-outs left who still think it's all right to have a few pints in the pub and then drive home, so why is it that many people think it's ok to write text messages on a phone when that's supposedly even more dangerous?
That's a question Florida company Textecution is trying to stop being asked by developing a piece of software that simply stops phones being used in moving cars at all.
GPS sentinel
The eponymous application runs only on Android phones so far and is available from the Textecution site for $9.95 (£6.60).
In essence, it uses the phone's GPS to work out if the handset is moving at more than 10mph. If it is, the software blocks access to the messaging functions and that's that.
Not driving
A very obvious flaw in the premise is addressed partly by a system that allows users (probably young adults) to message administrators (their parents) seeking an override exception when, for example, a passenger in a car or riding a bus.
Due to the limited number of Android phones on the market (i.e. one) right now, Textecution is clearly little more than a proof of concept, but the company does say it will have an iPhone version available soon.
Your comments (2) Click to add a new comment
roamerw1972
January 19th 2009
2. I think this application is extremely useful and it is an excellent idea to protect many idiots from themselves and others on the road. I have seen way too many horrible crashes because the driver was texting while driving. This is the same concept that is used in developing the device that makes people blow into it to start the car after they caused a crash while driving under the influence. The device mentioned in the article is obviously not perfect yet and I disagree that any price tag should be attached to it. I think a more sophisticated version should come with the operating system in an enabled state for free. This is not Big Brother stopping your 'freedom' to do whatever you want. Some people think they know better and they are invincible until they get into a crash because of something like texting while driving. What are you going to do with your 'freedom' after you are dead?
Alert a moderator
mysjkin
January 13th 2009
1. It is not the 1st of april yet?
Stupid idea... so whenever I am in a bus, or train or passanger in a car I cannot text... And I am supposed to pay 9.95 for that... Those who are, sorry would be, willing to pay for that application are those who are already aware of the problem and are not texting while driving.
Ok, then if one person is the admin and another the user, hah, trusting technology to stop my kids for doing something.
Well got myself a good laugh at least.
Alert a moderator
Tell us what you think
You need to Log in or register to post comments