Friday 2 August 2013

UK to ban Google Glass for motorists

girl lookign silly wearing Google Glass
The Department for Transport (DfT) will ban Google's augmented reality Glass headwear in cars before it goes on sale, and is "in discussion" with police to make sure road users do not use Glass while driving.
It is already illegal for drivers to use mobile phones at the wheel, with punishments including a fine of £60 and three penalty points. Offences also exist for motorists driving without due care and attention.
A DfT spokesman said: "It is important that drivers give their full attention to the road when they are behind the wheel and do not behave in a way that stops them from observing what is happening on the road.
"A range of offences and penalties already exist to tackle those drivers who do not pay proper attention to the road including careless driving, which will become a fixed penalty offence later this year. We are aware of the impending rollout of Google Glass and are in discussion with the Police to ensure that individuals do not use this technology while driving."
However, many modern cars are fitted with central console screens, allowing drivers to use technologies such as satellite navigation and music functionality. The DfT did not explain where the difference lies in this case, other than pointing towards offences which already exist.
Google Glass is currently only available in the US via its Explorer programme, which allowed adopters access to the technology for $1,500.
A Google statement said: "We are thinking very carefully about how we design Glass because new technology always raises new issues. Our Glass Explorer programme, currently only launched in the US, reaches people from all walks of life and will ensure that our users become active participants in shaping the future of this technology."
The search giant did not elaborate as to whether it was trying to find a solution to the driving issue, a problem which has come to the fore in recent months. The US state of Virginia has already implemented a bill that bans wearing computer equipment while driving.

No comments:

Post a Comment