Tech Digest reports on a new gadget and speech recognition system called iLane that provides drivers with a hands-free way of listening to email messages. iLane can also handle phone calls, calendar requests and SMS messages. The device plugs into the cigarette lighter.
iLane is a small device that interacts directly with existing Bluetooth-enabled handheld devices, allowing drivers to fully access their email in transit. iLane notifies the driver of incoming emails and other important information by reading a brief summary in a "natural sounding voice". The driver can then listen to the entire email message; forward or compose a response using verbal instructions. Phone calls, SMS messages, and a number of email attachment types can also be managed. In addition, filters can also be set to prioritise mail, so you don't get hassled with that latest sales pitch from an online store.
It's probably still distracting in the same way a child talking in the
backseat or the radio can be distracting...but at least it can be used
without the driver taking their eyes of the road or their hands off the
wheel. Gizmodo has more details about iLane. Gizmodo says it supports the major Western languages and it can read your emails in a male or female voice. Gizmodo also warns that it might be unwise to have children in the care when those raunchy spam message are read aloud by iLane.
Tech Digest 
