iPhone Update to Include New ‘Do Not Disturb While Driving’ Mode

By THC Staff | June 8, 2017

 

At the Worldwide Developers Conference in San Jose, Apple announced that iOS 11 will feature a “Do Not Disturb While Driving.” WFAA says the new, optional mode will recognize when the iPhone or iPad user is driving and will not light up the screen with tempting notifications that could have drivers grabbing for their phone. An additional option will allow users to send default text replies, explaining that the driver is busy and will get back to them ASAP.

“It’s all about keeping your eyes on the road,” Apple’s Senior Vice President of Software Engineering Craig Federighi said. “When you are driving you don’t need to be responding to these kind of messages.”

The “Do Not Disturb While Driving” option should help out Texans who will need to adjust to the new statewide ban on texting while driving which begins on September 1st. Chron.com writes that “drivers may not use a phone to ‘read, write, or send an electronic message while operating a motor vehicle unless the vehicle is stopped.’ If cited and found guilty, the offense comes with a fine of $25 to $99 for a first offense.”

The iOS 11 update officially debuts in the fall. Right now, it’s being beta-tested.