DiDi trials hands free mode in Melbourne to get around police fines

The ridesharing experience for many drivers and passengers could be shaken up as an industry titan rolls out a voice-control test in Melbourne.

Rideshare giant DiDi is testing voice-control technology in Melbourne in an effort to stop drivers copping hefty fines.

Drivers working for rideshare companies face heavy penalties if they use their phones on the road, but also must use the devices to accept fares.

In response, DiDi is testing a hands-free function for up to 1000 drivers that could be rolled out to all of Australia next year.

DiDi spokesman Dan Jordan hopes the change could help both drivers and passengers. Picture: supplied

DiDi spokesman Dan Jordan said the change would make for a better experience for drivers and passengers

“Some of the feedback we had from drivers was that having to touch their phones was causing a distraction,” he said.

“They also weren’t able to do so while driving due to local regulations.

“If we can provide a localised solution to allow them to accept trips without touching their phones then they won’t have to worry about those rules anymore.”

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Rideshare drivers can cop a $484 fine and lose four demerit points if caught touching their phones while on the road.

Mr Jordan said the hands-free technology had initially been developed because of ­another legal hurdle in Japan.

“Japanese taxi drivers are required to wear gloves so it makes it difficult to touch their smart phones at all,” he said.

“Similarly, regulations in Australia have created a need for the technology here.”

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