Hyundai Files Patent for Smartphone Blocker
Hyundai is looking to curb distracted driving.
The Korean automaker has filed a patent for technology that “limits or disables the use of some of mobile device features which could cause distraction to the user.”
The system essentially uses data from the vehicle such as speed to determine which smartphone functions are safe to use, including texting or making a call. The restrictions could also be active only for the area near the driver’s seat or the entire vehicle. Based on the patent filing, the system uses antennas placed around the vehicle to monitor for cellular signals. If it detects the signals, it will selectively decide which features can be used.
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Hyundai is looking to cover all bases too, with the ability to detect the time of day or importance of the caller to let certain messages through to the smartphone.The technology would require an app or firmware to be installed on the smartphone in order for it to work.
[Source: Free Patents Online]
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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driver will be motivated to move her arm and phone to the passenger side, thereby making a questionably unsafe situation a considerably unsafe situation
"Move her LEFT arm and phone..." (even better)