Some vehicles have built-in cameras, sensors, and digital displays to assist drivers, but the pricetag often turns those features into luxuries. An advanced app that just gained recognition at the International Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas turns smart phones into sophisticated driving displays.
The iOnRoad app, made by the Israeli computer vision company Picitup, is intended to transform smart phones from a distraction into a lifesaving tool. The application uses a device's built-in sensors and camera, which work when the smartphone is mounted above the dashboard. The free Android app maps objects ahead of the vehicle and calculates speeds in real time. When a collision seems likely, it warns the driver with visual and audio alerts.
Depending on what the driver wants to do, iOnRoad includes a personal Web dashboard showing driving data and maps. The app allows drivers to take a snapshot of the road -- an accident, a terrible driver or something cool by tapping once on the screen. An audio function will read texts and phone notifications aloud to prevent fiddling with the device.
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At CES, the company announced new functions for the app: a lane departure warning that warns drivers when they're going outside the lines, and a photo-based car locator to help drivers find their cars in giant parking lots.
At the same time apps such as iOnRoad are emerging, the National Transportation Safety Board is recommending a ban on the use of cell phones and text messaging devices while driving, including hands-free devices. The ban wouldn’t apply to devices installed by automakers, however. State legislatures, many of which have already banned texting while driving, will decide whether to adopt this sweeping measure.
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Distracted driving is undoubtedly deadly. Last month, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration announced it had started measuring “distraction-affected” crashes. Applying the measurement to 2010 data, the administration found that distraction played a role more than 3,000 fatalities on the road that year.
The folks at iOnRoad hope their app will be an alternative to a cell phone ban. The app was named a design and engineering honoree in the Software and Mobile Apps category at CES, which recognizes programs and operating systems.
For drivers who can’t afford new vehicles with high-tech displays and alerts, an app might be the next best thing.
Image: iOnRoad warns drivers about a possible collision. Credit: Picitup.
This article is part of our ongoing coverage of this year's Consumer Electronics Show. Find more CES articles here.
Tags: Auto, CES 2012, Driving and Safety
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