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U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg cautioned drivers on Monday, emphasizing the importance of human attention behind the wheel, following the circulation of videos showing individuals seemingly using Apple's new Vision Pro headset while operating Teslas.
According to a report on The Guardian, responding via Twitter to a video garnering over 24 million views, Buttigieg addressed concerns raised by a Tesla driver apparently manipulating a virtual reality field with hand gestures.
Despite the names assigned to Tesla's driving assistance features – Autopilot, Enhanced Autopilot, and Full Self-Driving – Buttigieg clarified on social media that these functionalities do not render the vehicles fully autonomous.
"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," Buttigieg stressed.
Apple's Vision Pro, unveiled last week, integrates three-dimensional digital content with real-world visuals. Apple, cautioning against its use while driving, has not yet responded to inquiries seeking comment.
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
Alan Dye, Apple's vice-president of human interface design, described the Vision Pro as a headset enabling users to engage with augmented reality (AR) or fully immersive virtual reality (VR) experiences based on their surroundings.
"Apple Vision Pro relies solely on your eyes, hands, and voice," Dye explained, noting its intuitive browsing features.
While Apple executives, including Tim Cook, heralded the Vision Pro's potential to transform communication and entertainment, the company emphasized its unsuitability for use during commutes.
Tesla, queried about the matter, has yet to provide a response.
Buttigieg's remarks echo previous statements concerning the use of Tesla's autopilot system. Tesla underscores that its advanced driver features are intended for vigilant drivers ready to assume control when necessary.
[With information sourced from The Guardian]
