Road safety organisations are generally welcoming an announcement by Apple that its next iPhone software update will feature a ‘do not disturb while driving’ mode.

The feature, when active, will be able to tell if you are in a car when your phone is connected to the car’s USB connection or Bluetooth. It will also be able to use the iPhone’s sensors to determine your speed, even if your phone isn’t connected. It will then block calls and notifications.

GEM road safety officer Neil Worth commented, “The Apple update is an excellent step forward, and a powerful awareness raiser for road safety. However, we are concerned that there is an option for a vehicle occupant to override the ‘do not disturb’ mode. Currently we are not aware of any technology that can distinguish between a driver and passenger choosing to override the safety feature. No doubt a hard core of offenders, with little or no regard for the law, will choose this option and continue to put lives at risk by using a phone while driving.” He adds for “For every driver, taking personal responsibility and never touching or using a phone on a journey is the most effective way of reducing risk. A bit of planning might be needed, and this can make a huge difference for safety.”