Reducing driver distraction on the digital dash

06.05.2021 by WorldDAB

WorldDAB is uniquely positioned as the group which brings together broadcasters and vehicle manufacturers to support the development of voice control for radio in the car

As screens in the car become larger, the information on the screen becomes richer. While this provides a better experience for the driver, it could in the future lead to increased distraction and reduced safety for the driver.

Radio has been considered in the past a 'lean back' medium with an almost perfect use case in the car in terms of safety and limited driver distraction. As radio moves to hybrid and the radio experience in the connected car offers more, broadcasters need to provide information in a way that does not increase driver distraction.

The WorldDAB Automotive Working Group brings together radio broadcasters and auto makers to collaborate on improving the DAB+ digital radio experience for drivers. Importantly, the work of the group is now focused on providing clear guidelines for broadcasters sending information in the DAB slideshow function which is informative to the driver without increasing distraction.

A key focus for the WorldDAB UX group is ensuring that drivers have access to a radio experience that combines a great user interface, rich content and a truly hybrid radio experience that offers seamless transition between broadcast, IP and on-demand – all while keeping radio as the safe medium in the car. The Group has produced guidelines providing advice to auto makers on implementing DAB+ for a richer audio and multimedia experience.

Knowledge of the problem of driver distraction is undergoing constant revision. The WorldDAB UX Group is committed to collaborating to ensure a safe radio experience in all current and future cars.

Register to attend WorldDAB Automotive 2021 on 23 June, to hear more about how broadcasters and vehicles manufacturers are working together to implement solutions that keep radio prominent, while building a great radio experience for the listener.