One of the features that Apple
Eyes Free is made to integrate Siri directly into your car and tap into natural language voice commands while you're driving. The Mac maker said it was already working with automakers to include the functionality within the next year, including BMW, General Motors
The function would be activated by pressing a steering wheel button and is seen as progress toward reducing distracted drivers, an onus that Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood has placed on carmakers instead of gadget makers. Hopefully, drivers will keep their eyes on the road and be able to talk to the assistant to get things done.
GM has now confirmed that it will be among the first to implement the new feature, starting with the Chevrolet Spark and Sonic. The resurrected automaker told GM Authority that we could expect an official announcement within the next 12 months.
2013 Chevrolet Spark interior. Source: GM.
Meanwhile, behind the scenes, the Siri's recognition provider, Nuance Communications
Interestingly, Ford
Collaborations of automakers, gadget makers, and software providers to tackle distracted drivers will benefit us all, especially as nowadays texting and driving is just as dangerous as drinking and driving, and there's no age limit for texting.
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