Apple has done it again! Siri continues to make an impact on every
industry throughout the world. Honda has
now integrated support for Apple’s Siri digital assistant for owners who have
compatible iPhones in some of the 2013 models.
According to Honda, the integration will also include the 2013 Acura RDX
and ILX; and the iPhone device will need to be running at least the iOS6
system. Assistant Vice President of
Automobile Product Planning Vicki Poponi said:
“iPhone has become so integral to
people’s lives that they continue to use them in their vehicles. Offering Honda
and Acura owners Siri and its Eyes Free mode via Bluetooth is an incredible
opportunity to provide next-generation connectivity and meet our customer’s
ever-changing needs.”
Apple designers explain that the
Eyes Free Mode works in connection with the vehicle’s voice control systems,
and it I this that allows the driver to speak a specific command without having
to look at the phone or press any buttons.
Already aboard The BMWs, the mode includes asking Siri to send text
messages, call contacts, find directions, read app notifications, and check and
record calendar and reminder information.
Furthermore, a special feature of the Eyes Free Mode keeps the phone’s screen
from lighting up, which minimizes the likelihood of a driver becoming
distracted from looking down at the phone.
What does this mean for our
roads? As we have seen since the
development of Siri, she has made it easier for those individuals who cannot seem
to part with their phones while driving, a simpler, and safer way to
communicate while driving. For those of
us who are committed to distracted-driving free roadways Siri has become a
potential dream come true; and with the integration in economy cars, Apple
continues to set itself apart from the rest.
The only question now is, will drivers take advantage? Would you buy a car simply for its hands-free
capabilities? Tell us what you think!