James Delahunty
9 Jul 2006 10:29
In a bid to make iPod usage safer when performing such tasks as driving or cycling, the next generation of iPods will reportedly talk to users. The device will be able to tell users what tracks and artists are coming up next, removing the need to look at the screen when changing songs. Apple will use the latest technology to turn even the most difficult artist and track names into recognizable speech.
The new feature will be crucial as the digital media player market is heating up. Apple's iPod has already slipped lately amid reports of terrible working conditions at an iPod producing factory in China. Also there has been a lot of music industry insider speculation and claims around a new device and iTunes-like software system from Microsoft (even though Microsoft has denied this so far).
Apple has refused to comment on the latest feature but a patent lodged by the company in the United States serves as proof. Users of the music players will still operate the Clickwheel as normal, but hear the names of songs and bands through their headphones. The patent reveals the idea's main purpose is to increase user safety.
"A user will have difficulty navigating the interface in 'eyes-busy' situations. Such activities include, for example, driving an automobile, exercising and crossing the street." it states. Apple has good reason to look into a feature like this as accidents have already been reportedly caused by iPod usage.
A teenager from Preston in the UK was killed last month while listening to his iPod while cycling when he collided with a tractor. Another teenager, Kathryn Thomas, caused a fatal road accident last year when she took her eyes off the road to show a friend how to use her iPod. "If people don't need to take their eyes off the road and hands off the wheel then there are clear benefits to that." Roger Vincent, spokesman for the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents, said.
Source:
Scotsman