Apple Reportedly Sued for Not Implementing FaceTime ‘Lock Out’; Feature Could’ve Saved Lives
Athena DeeA vehicular accident in December 2014 that involved the Modisette family, left James critically injured and Moriah, 5 years old, dead. Garrett Wilhelm, the driver of the other car faced manslaughter charges, but it would appear that he was not solely at fault.
The lawsuit can be seen on Courthouse News. It shows that Wilhelm already admitted to being on his smartphone at the time that he crashed into the rear of the Modisettes' Toyota Camry. Two years after the accident, the Modisettes are claiming that Apple was partially responsible for what happened.
According to the lawsuit, Apple applied for a patent for a new technology in 2008. This new feature is an alternative design that will "lock out" the ability of drivers to utilize the FaceTime app on their mobile devices. It is written that the Cupertino-based tech company could have installed the new technology by the time the accident happened.
David Teater, who used to work for the National Safety Council, also lost a son because of a distracted driver. He commented that tech companies are afraid to cut off service for their paying patrons. None of them wants "to be the first to block texting and driving."
However, Teater is convinced that "if Apple had deployed this technology ten years ago, there would be more people alive today." "How would you feel knowing Apple had the ability to prevent your teen from ever texting and driving, and they chose not to?" he said, as reported by The New York Times.
The patent indicated that "hand-held computing devices can provide a lockout mechanism" by making use of location, scenery, and motion sensors to find out whether or not the phone was moving. According to Christopher Klutz, a professor at the University of California School of Law, Apple "failed in their social responsibility" when they did not implement the new tech.
most read
more stories from News
Big news! Apple nearing agreement with Baidu for AI integration in Chinese iPhones. Stay tuned for the latest updates on this exciting collaboration.
ernest hamiltonSamsung expands Galaxy AI rollout to millions of users. S23, Z Flip 5, Z Fold 5 included. Explore the latest enhancements and features. Upgrade your device now!
ernest hamiltonExciting update alert! Google Messages Beta introduces Gemini for selected users. Experience enhanced chats with this new feature. Explore the latest innovations now!
ernest hamiltonRumor alert! iPhone 16 Pro to feature A18 Pro chip, enhancing AI with 6-core GPU. Stay tuned for the latest updates on Apple's next-gen device.
ernest hamiltonExciting news for Samsung users! One UI 6.1 update rolls out this week, introducing Galaxy AI for S23, Fold5, and Flip5. Explore the latest features and enhancements. Update now!
ernest hamiltonGoogle ceases Pixel 6a sales, signaling a strategy shift. Stay informed on the latest developments in the smartphone market.
ernest hamiltonWhatsApp beta update unlocks direct access to Meta AI via search bar. Explore the latest features and streamline your messaging experience. Update now for enhanced functionality!
ernest hamiltonUnlock savings with Samsung! New price offer promotion introduced for Galaxy S24 phone buyers. Don't miss out on this limited-time deal. Upgrade your device today!
ernest hamilton