In iOS 11, Apple introduced Auto Mode, which silences notifications when you’re on the go. In this way, the Auto mode ensures that you do not crash.
Safer on the road with fewer alerts
A function that is relatively unknown, but secretly very important is the Auto mode. Apple also realized that people were increasingly distracted by their iPhone in the car, after which it also introduced Car mode in 2017 with iOS 11. The function is to ensure that people keep their eyes on the road and are not distracted and tempted to check incoming notifications.
The nice thing about ‘Do not disturb while driving’ – as the function is officially called – is that it can be set both automatically and manually. If you choose to have the feature turn on automatically, your iPhone will automatically detect when you’re on the go and turn the feature on automatically until you stop.
For example, if you regularly have a co-driver, you can also use the function manually. To do this, add the mode to the Control Panel. You can set this as follows.
- Go to Settings and then to Control panel;
- Here tap on ‘Adjust controls’;
- Tap the plus sign next to ‘Do not disturb while driving’;
- Use the icon on the right to drag the mode to another place in your Control Panel.
Now when you open your control panel, simply tap the car icon to activate the mode. To switch it off again, tap the icon again after driving.
This way you automatically switch on Car mode
If you find it difficult not to keep an eye on your phone while driving, automatic activation is a great solution. Moreover, you do not have to switch on the mode for every car trip.
- In Settings, go to the Do Not Disturb menu;
- Tap ‘Activate’ under the heading ‘Do not disturb while driving’;
- Select ‘Automatic’ here. If you connect your iPhone to your car via bluetooth, select ‘Via Bluetooth in the car’.
In both cases, the function switches on automatically as soon as you are on the road. If your iPhone is connected to your car via bluetooth, phone calls will come through as normal, because you can then answer the call via the buttons on your steering wheel and in the car.
This happens when Auto mode is activated
With the feature activated, your iPhone will remain silent and the screen will remain black on incoming notifications. When someone sends a message or iMessage, they will get an automatic reply saying you are driving. Notifications from timers, alarm clocks and emergency notifications are shown.
Otherwise, the mode works the same as the standard Do Not Disturb feature. If someone calls, this call will only be continued if they are in your Favorites or if they call twice in a row.
It is also possible to use your iPhone for navigation when the function is on. The step-by-step instructions of your navigation app will then appear on the lock screen.
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