Apple’s newest feature backed by campaigners

2 minute read  |  June 27, 2017

Do not Disturb is a feature known to many iPhone users, whereby they can set the phone to block any potentially disturbing calls, texts or application updates for a set period while you get through a busy period in peace. The latest iteration of the feature called “Do Not Disturb While Driving” will concentrate on, surprisingly, on drivers.

Once the phone detects that it is in a vehicle, either through a Bluetooth connection or cable, the phone will automatically silence notifications keeping the screen dark to avoid causing a distraction to drivers.

Put me through, it’s urgent!

While the iPhone will limit driver distractions by diverting all incoming calls, messages and notifications if someone replies to a diversion with the word “urgent” this will push the message through in an emergency.

While this could potentially be misused by some, the idea behind the innovation could be lifesaving. Pete Williams, spokesperson for the RAC’s Be Phone Smart campaign, believes the potential to distract drivers will be decreased significantly.

IOS 11 is due for release in Autumn 2017; around the time the latest iteration of the iPhone is due to be released. It is a free upgrade for Apple users and can be downloaded directly from your device.

Whether this will be the latest shared feature across all mobile devices remains to be seen although, the safety implications alone should be enough to force the issue. Do you think it’s a good idea or would you turn the option off when the update rolls around?

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