We are constantly reminded of the dangers of using technology while driving. Texting, talking and the latest craze of taking selfies are causing more and more accidents. The solution may be here with new hands-free technology that is all voice activated
Advancing technology hasn't exactly allowed people to set-off on journeys in flying cars, however, similar innovations are apparently ahead of us.
Today, various automobile and technology firms make significant investments on R&D projects related to in-car technologies. Most of in-car techs currently exist as prototypes; however, some of them in which we relegated merely to sci-fi films ten years ago already exist, and are in use.
One of newest technologies was designed to make driving safer. In-car smartphone integration is in high demand, and is used in luxury and non-luxury autos. Smartphones are plugged into cars so that drivers can use them with voice commands while driving. Such sophisticated user interfaces allow you to make calls, read messages or send voice messages to someone else. Considering the high rate of car accidents due to mobile phone use around European countries, in-car technology will presumably save many lives in the future. The San Francisco-based company Navdy introduced a smarter solution to move smartphone use forward in autos. The Navdy HUD (Head-Up Display) consists of an advanced projection system placed on a dashboard that projects all kinds of data through the windshield, enabling you to access information and apps. The new product brings convenience and safety to drivers without putting them at risk on road. For instance, the Navdy HUD is activated by voice command or gestures. Drivers can also use Twitter, Facebook, WhatsApp or navigation systems that show maps and routes. Imagine that you post a tweet through your voice without leaving hands on steering wheel!
In addition, Intel and Ford joined forces to challenge the limits of our imagination with "Project Mobii," and the software's features may even sound frightening. The facial-recognition system identifies the driver through interior video cameras as soon as he steps in. It enhances the in-car experience, and offers a personalized experience with comfort and driving preferences. The product can learn who is going to drive the car, and remembers personal choices. Furthermore, Mobii is able to open the sunroof or turn on the air conditioning if you feel hot through voice commands. The imaginative technology's features are not limited with those mentioned above. Think about when you get out of the car, but cannot find your bag. You can look for it through the software. The next scenario is that if the software does not recognize the driver, it immediately sends a photo to your smartphone. In other words, Mobii warns you, and says, "Someone else is driving your car. I do not know him." Since the product is integrated to your smartphone, you may either let him to drive the car or not. If necessary, you can set a speed limit for the other driver, or even decide a drive's duration, or the number of people seating in the car. Mobii can also send you a message if the other driver uses a mobile phone on the road. To make it clear, the software can remember a second driver (i.e., your child or employee), and allows you to set restrictions even when you are not with them. Bear in mind, Mobii sends instant notification you if the limits are exceeded.
The software is designed to refrain drivers from worse-case scenarios. If the driver is about to fall asleep, Mobii warns him to get up. Presently, luxury autos are installed with this technology that warns the driver by vibrating the steering wheel or sending voice commands. As mentioned, the in-car driving experience improves safety. Mobii can steer the wheel or hit the brake for you. Imagine, you are driving at a very rapid pace, but lost in thought. If you are closing in on the car in front of you, the software first sends you a voice notification. If you do not slow down, Mobii puts on the brake, and stops the car. Likewise, the car will stop if you go off the road.
Above all, there are a number of successful in-car technologies in the prototype phase. The most fascinating innovation is presumably automobiles without drivers. Auto giants such as Audi, Mercedes and BMW are working on cars that can run with only navigation systems, and Google has already clocked hundreds of thousands of hours with self-driving car prototypes. The upcoming technology first checks current traffic conditions, and finds the most suitable route. Mounted with sensors and cameras, the future cars can identity passengers or other cars that pose a risk faster than a driver, and the testdrives are completed with stellar success rates. None of the companies have announced a definite launch date, yet, however. Finally, another sci-fi fantasy will soon come true: "Knight Rider." I assume those spending hours to find a parking slot or getting soaked in rain because they are unable to park their car close will predict what I am going to say. Well, I am talking about a car that is able to find a parking spot without a driver, and come back when you call it. Audi's newest technology will be introduced to the auto market in the near future. Technology not only provides comfort, easy access, and safety in cars, but also frightens us with its high capacity. Apart from these, certain auto firms are developing "self-driving cars" that are beyond the scope of this review as they will not be on display in following five years.
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