VAIS Technology announced its first unlock/bypass system that allows users to input an address while the car is in motion.
The VAIS module works with Toyota and Lexus navigation systems to offer a 3 minute unlock or continuous unlock. It also unlocks other features for use while driving including handsfree calling, contact list, information screen and more.
It is compatible with Lexus models from 2007 through 2015 and will be compatible with Toyota models starting next month.
The VAIS ULM module has a retail price of $174.99.
Bob
I have to agree, to design a product with the specific intention of over-riding OEM safety protocols is beyond belief. In today’s litigation happy world it will not take much to show that this could easily add to distraction. We have seen this for years with Lock pick type products and we will always see people overriding aftermarket products on their own, but I can say with confidence that I will not release a product in this category with this intention.
This is creating more distractions in the car as it is not a whole lot different than texting or entering nav info into your phone while driving. Advantage is that the screen is larger and mounted solidly to the car. Bigger problem is that most of these unlock devices create the ability to watch video while driving. All these things take your eyes off the road but having a movie going in view of the driver is just stupid.
Some manufacturers will lock out features that others do not. Such as dial pad. Sometimes it is necessary for the passenger to enter a destination while moving. The three minute unlock feature is useful for this reason. Also should we let the government or car manufacturers decide what we are allowed to do with our navigation systems. Portable Nav units are not locked out and millions of people use them every day.
“Also should we let the government or car manufacturers decide what we are allowed to do with our navigation systems. Portable Nav units are not locked out and millions of people use them every day.”
Actually the government has safety mandates and car manufacturers follow their guidelines.
Every portable navigation device has a power up disclaimer or requires you to say you are not the driver when trying to use when the vehicle is moving which I suppose is the same as this products web page that states it unlocks and allows use while driving, but then warns at the bottom of the page not to use the system while driving as it it dangerous.
I understand it is so inconvenient to pull over for a few seconds so you can enter the information. You probably could have been a mile or two down the road.
Oh and by the way, the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration actually claims they will be releasing rules (which will be back door regulations) to control ALL PORTABLE devices brought into vehicles. Yes it is ridiculous, but unfortunately it is also real and should be a concern for all of us. CEA has been fighting this for good reason…
I am not sure if I am missing something here, but is this press release actually promoting a product that enables an unsafe driving action?
If the car manufacturer following industry standards and safety regulations locks this feature out, why in the world would an aftermarket company promote bypassing it? Just because you can do it does not mean you should.
Hopefully I am just mis-reading this and / or misunderstanding what it is saying after pulling an all nighter working on a project.