Google Glass Set To Be Banned While Driving In UK?

Google Glass To Be Banned While Driving (Even Though It's Not Out Yet)

Google Glass hasn't even launched in the UK yet, but the government is already taking steps to ban its use while driving.

The wearable computer allows wearers to make video calls, take pictures, search the web and follow turn-by-turn directions.

But according to the gadget magazine Stuff, a spokesperson for the Department of Transport says that the device is potentially distracting.

Stuff quoted the spokesman as saying:

"We are aware of the impending rollout of Google Glass and are in discussion with the police to ensure that individuals do not use this technology while driving.

"It is important that drivers give their full attention to the road when they are behind the wheel and do not behave in a way that stops them from observing what is happening on the road."

The DoT indicated that the device would be subject to the same penalties as driving while using a mobile phone - which was banned in 2003, since when more than a million drivers have been convicted at a cost of £60 and three penalty points.

It appears likely that it would fall under the same definition of mobile phones described in the 1988 Road Traffic Act.

Google told the Guardian that it is "thinking very careful" about how it launches and designs Glass, "because new technology always raises new issues".

Check out our UK-first review of Google Glass to find out more about how it feels to wear, use - and talk to - the unique computer.

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