Mobile Phone App Helps Drivers on the Road

Unlocking Word Meanings
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.

1. attach [uh-TACH] (v.) – to connect or to put something together

Example: He attached the mouse to the computer.

2.  interpret  [in-TUR-prit] (v.)–to provide information that may explain the meaning of something

Example: Scientists interpret data about the Earth from satellites. .

3. accelerate [ak-SEL-uh-reyt] (v.) – to go faster; to make something move faster

Example: The racer accelerated his car to 180km per hour.

4. urgent [UR-juhnt] (adj.) – very important and needs a solution as soon as possible

Example: The company leaders had an emergency meeting because of an urgent matter.

5. hardware [HAHRD-wair] (n.) – gadgets, devices or computers such as the speakers, keyboard, etc.

Example: The keyboard is type of hardware that helps us put information into computers.

Article
Read the text below.

Automatic Labs Inc. has developed a phone app called “Automatic” that the company says will make driving safer and better. Many of today’s cars contain a data port, where a Bluetooth adapter can be attached. Through a Bluetooth connection, smartphones can get information from the car’s computer. According to the Automatic company, its app will not only get information but will also interpret the available data. The app will help drivers learn about their driving style by informing them if they accelerate too quickly or if they step on the brakes unnecessarily. The app will notify drivers about their performance and about how much gas they use when driving. Drivers can also put in the app how much money they spend on gas, and the app will analyze if the car is working properly. Furthermore, Automatic can be useful in emergency situations. If a driver meets an accident on the road, the system will send urgent messages to people listed on the driver’s emergency contact list. Automatic will also send the location of the accident. Aside from emergency uses, Automatic checks where the car is parked. Drivers have the option to share this info to their contacts. Currently, the app is being designed for the iOS only, but the developers plan to make Automatic available for Android soon. The Bluetooth connector of the Automatic system is priced at $69.99. Additionally, a hardware that will be available in May is needed to make the system work.

Viewpoint Discussion
Enjoy a discussion with your tutor. 

Discussion A 

·         Does the “Automatic" app appeal to you? Please explain your answer.

·         Should people always trust information from technology or gadgets? Why or why not?

Discussion B

·         What do you think causes car accidents?

·         What can people do so that they can be safer drivers?

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