Apple recently released iOS11, its latest operating system. With it comes the long-awaited “Do Not Disturb While Driving” feature. Many have criticized Apple for not having this feature sooner. “Do Not Disturb While Driving” will darken your screen and block calls, texts and notifications while connected to your car via Bluetooth or when the car is in motion. It does not disconnect your ability to listen to music or navigation via Bluetooth.
Third-party apps have long prevented texting while the car is in motion, but stop short there. The new “Do Not Disturb While Driving” feature blocks distractions at a system level. When the car is in motion anyone who texts you while you are driving will receive an automated response saying you are driving and will respond when you arrive at your destination. A second message goes out asking if it’s an emergency, if so an urgent message will come through.
For this week’s Tech Tech Tuesday, talk with your children about your car rides to and from school, practices and road trips. Making the car a screen-free zone is safer for the driver and a wonderful opportunity for family bonding and excellent modeling for our future drivers. Here are some questions to ask:
- What is/could be fun to do on a phone/screen in the car (when not driving of course)?
- What are things one can do in the car if not on a phone or tablet?
- How do you feel about no screens in the car, except for music, podcasts, and maps?
For more information about screen-free car rides, go to https://www.screenagersmovie.com/tech-talk-tuesdays/screen-free-car-rides-and-apples-new-do-not-disturb-function
Screenagers Movie Trailer
The next Screenagers showing is on Oct. 17 at Green Mountain High School in Lakewood. Get your tickets here.
Author: Mile High Mamas
