Scosche has a simple plug-and-play solution to help curb smartphone activities while driving. Users insert the $ 129 CellControl in to their vehicle’s OBD-II interface — a standard port on cars produced after 1996 — which pairs with the CellControl app on a smartphone. When the module detects the vehicle is in motion, all handset activities are disabled, with the exception of hands-free functions.
Texting, phone calls, email and apps are generally shut down while driving with the CellControl and attempts to remove or tamper with the module can be automatically reported to a device admin. That’s handy if the kids try to circumvent the system, for example. Music libraries are still available for use on the car’s receiver and calls taken through a Bluetooth headset or an auto’s integrated wireless system are still allowed with the system.
This is a smart method to help cut down on distracted driving because of cellphones; smarter in my opinion than legislation to accomplish similar results. Laws that dictate no handset use in vehicles can limit the use of valuable smartphone functions such as location services, emergency calls and integrated apps for us in a car. Granted, not everyone can afford the $ 129 CellControl, but it’s a viable option that uses technology to improve safety.
For now, Scosche’s software is supported on Android and BlackBerry handsets as well as older Windows Mobile and Symbian S60 devices. I don’t expect to see the CallControl gain iOS support as apps that control and iPhone’s core functionality generally aren’t approved by Apple. Perhaps Cupertino would make an exception or consider a licensing agreement with Scosche, given how distracting it can be to use a phone while driving.
Related research and analysis from GigaOM Pro:
Subscriber content. Sign up for a free trial.
- Connected world: the consumer technology revolution
- Carrier IQ and the continued erosion of operator trust
- The future of mobile: a segment analysis by GigaOM Pro
