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SALT LAKE CITY -- AT&T launched an application earlier this month that aims to prevent drivers from texting while on the road.
The app, called DriveMode, automatically sends a customizable reply to incoming text messages, informing the sender that the user is unable to respond. It is available for free on Blackberry operating systems and is currently being developed for other systems, according to AT&T.
DriveMode can also disable incoming and outgoing calls, emails and web browsing. Users can view missed calls and text messages as usual upon disabling the app.
The idea for DriveMode came from a tip submitted to AT&T's Innovation Pipeline, an online platform employees can use to propose ideas to the company. The tip was voted one fo the top ideas and later became DriveMode.
Using this new app could be one of the most important decisions a driver makes.
–Maria Miller
DriveMode is a part of AT&T's "It Can Wait" campaign, which urges the public to use technology wisely.
"We want consumers to be safe while using our technology," said AT&T spokesperson Maria Miller.
"We want to prevent crashes that result from texting while driving before they happen," she added. "We want to be able to educate and equip customers with the tools they need to do that."
The campaign also provides educational resources for texters and parents of texters, as well as a 10-minute documentary titled "The Last Text," which features stories about people whose lives have been affected by texting while driving.
AT&T hopes to set an example for its customers by making changes within the company. It recently implemented policies to prohibit texting while driving and is using social media to spread the word about the campaign.
"At AT&T, they are really showcasing their commitment to social responsibility," said Miller. "Using this new app could be one of the most important decisions a driver makes."
