Logitech has unveiled ZeroTouch, a device that helps drivers keep their hands on the wheel while simultaneously engaging in text conversations.
The concept is simple and clean. A Bluetooth-enabled bracket allows drivers to hook their Android phone to the dashboard vent or on the top of the dash. Once the phone is in place, drivers use Logitech's new ZeroTouch app to control it via voice or hand movement. For the gesture interaction to work, the handset should have an infrared sensor on the front.
"[ZeroTouch offers a] connected car for the other 90 percent of the world that doesn't want to buy a new car," Logitech President and CEO Bracken P. Darrell, says.
The device asks you to shell out $59 for the model that can be bracket-mounted on the vent of the dashboard. The dashboard-positioned variant is a tad more expensive, at $79.
Setup is easy, and the app fires up immediately when you put the phone in the ZeroTouch cradle.
The app has High Five gesture support and contains a "Talk 2 Text" feature that allows the driver to dictate text messages, and also to have the ZeoTouch app read the incoming texts. Additionally, drivers may share their location with another phone. The notable thing is that the receiver's phone does not need to have the ZeroTouch app, as the location gets to them via Glympse integration.
Darrell further says that his company cooperated closely with the Automobile Association of America (AAA) to build the gadget, and all efforts were pulled to make sure that drivers don't need to see or touch the phone while driving.
The software also plays well with third-party app integrations, such as WhatsApp, Spotify, Google Hangouts and Facebook Messenger. The app will allow you to receive calls, but only one outgoing call can happen at any time.
Currently, ZeroTouch can be downloaded only for Android, while iOS device owners need to wait a tad more before the Apple compatible version becomes available. What is more, ZeroTouch will be available only in the U.S. and Germany at first.
It is not the first innovation that encourages drivers to pay attention to the road while using their smartphones. In February, Tech Times reported about a steering wheel cover that was designed with texting drivers in mind.
The Logitech ZeroTouch aims to support a truly hands-free driving experience, so check out the videos below to see the smart car mount in action.
