Don’t Let VR Go Too Far – Tesla and Apple Respond to Dangerous Driving Videos
Eyes on the Road: Tesla and Apple Caution Against Using VR Headsets While Driving
San Francisco, CA – Videos of Tesla drivers wearing Apple’s new Vision Pro virtual reality headset while operating vehicles on public roads have gone viral online, raising major safety concerns. In response, both Tesla and Apple have issued reminders about the importance of focused driving, as authorities weigh in on the dangers of mixing VR and real-world driving.
“We’ve seen the videos and are very concerned about this misuse of our technology,” said Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO. “Vision Pro is an incredible device, but it completely blocks your vision. We implore customers to follow our safety guidelines and never use it behind the wheel.”
Similarly, a Tesla spokesperson cautioned that their advanced driver assistance features do not enable fully autonomous driving. “Drivers must remain fully engaged and in control of their vehicle at all times,” they said.
Viral Videos Spark Alarm Over VR Driving Dangers
Reminder—ALL advanced driver assistance systems available today require the human driver to be in control and fully engaged in the driving task at all times. pic.twitter.com/OpPy36mOgC
— Secretary Pete Buttigieg (@SecretaryPete) February 5, 2024
The viral videos in question show Tesla drivers with Apple’s new VR headset completely obscuring their vision as they appear to steer and manipulate virtual objects with gestures. In one video, a driver even gets pulled over by police while wearing the headset.
These videos have alarmed authorities, including U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg who tweeted: “Reminder – ALL advanced driver assistance systems available today require the human driver to be in control and fully engaged in the driving task at all times.”
Safety advocates echo these concerns about the dangers of divided attention behind the wheel. “You can’t be doing that while you are driving,” said David Reich, spokesperson for the National Road Safety Foundation. “This seems like a major distraction.”
Tesla and Apple Respond With Safety Reminders
In light of the videos, Tesla and Apple have both issued statements underscoring the responsibility of drivers and the limitations of current driver assistance technologies.
“Tesla’s Autopilot and Full Self-Driving features are intended for use by a fully attentive driver with their hands on the wheel, ready to take over at any time,” said a Tesla spokesperson.
Apple likewise cautions against Vision Pro use when “operating a moving vehicle, bicycle, heavy machinery, or in any other situation requiring attention to safety.”
While advanced technologies hold promise for improving road safety in the future, humans still bear the responsibility for safe driving today. Both companies are urging customers to keep their eyes on the road.
Looking Ahead: Building a Future of Safe VR Transportation
As amazing as emerging VR technology is, it simply isn’t ready yet for safe in-vehicle use. Policymakers, automakers and tech companies still have work to do building fail-safe systems that account for the risks of distracted driving.
But the future holds incredible promise for augmented reality to enhance road safety and the driving experience when the time is right. Until then, Tesla and Apple are wisely erring on the side of caution and urging drivers to focus on the real world, not virtual worlds while behind the wheel.
While innovation moves fast, ensuring safety should always come first. Tech leaders and drivers both play a role in achieving that balance.
