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Wireless Invention Jams Teen Drivers' Cell Calls

Posted by samzenpus on from the you-can't-hear-me-now dept.

alphadogg writes "University of Utah researchers have invented technology that could come to be embraced by teenagers with the same enthusiasm they have for curfews and ID checks. And like those things, it could save their lives. Key2SafeDriving technology uses RFID or Bluetooth wireless capabilities to issue signals from car keys to cell phones to prevent drivers from talking on their phones or texting while driving. A company called Accendo LC of Kaysville, Utah has licensed the technology and is working to build it into commercial devices that could be on the market next year. The company is sorting out how to bring the technology to market, but one possibility is that it would be made available through cell phone service companies and could also be tied in with insurance companies, which might offer discounts for users."

6 of 232 comments (clear)

  1. E911 by Nicholas+Evans · · Score: 0, Redundant

    Anything that interferes with somebody's ability to dial 911 on a phone will be shot to pieces by the FCC.

    The product is dead in the water.

    --
    The Yasashii Syndicate ||
  2. Shut up about the emergency situations, jeez by gblackwo · · Score: 0, Redundant

    This is not a jammer, it is a bluetooth device.

    They would have to be idiots to lock out 911.

    Even phones that you have lying around without an active subscription can make 911 calls.

  3. Jamming devices are ILLEGAL under FCC regs.... by Ellis+D.+Tripp · · Score: -1, Redundant

    Intentionally interfering with any licensed communication service (including cellphones) is a violation of FCC regs, and will bring down fines on the manufacturer of these things, and possibly people who install them.

    The only way to accomplish this that would be legal would be to turn the car into a Faraday cage (screened windows, etc.), blocking reception PASSIVELY. Anything that radiates a signal of it's own to block reception is going to run afoul of the FCC.

    --
    Remember "News for Nerds, Stuff that Matters"? Help make it a reality again! http://soylentnews.org
  4. Car accident by Anonymous Coward · · Score: -1, Redundant

    What happens if they're in a bad accident and they need to call for 911? Phone disabled = no call.

    How is this activated? How is this deactivated?

  5. waste of time by Orig_Club_Soda · · Score: -1, Redundant

    Jamming cell phones is a federal crime.

  6. Re:911, but not Mom? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: -1, Redundant

    Yeah.. those stupid teens.. because adults never drive stupid.

    My perception has been a little different. I've found EVERYONE to drive like idiots lately. I even have idiot moments.

    Drive stupid what?

    Oh, you mean stupidly...