Every day we're bombarded with all sorts of signals, from missed signals to mixed signals — and then there are traffic signals. We wait, counting the seconds before a light finally turns green, and we hold our breath hoping the yellow is long enough to sneak through the intersection. But what if we could anticipate what traffic signals are going to do, and when? Let the EnLighten app enlighten you as to the answer.
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Conceived by tech startup Connected Signals, the EnLighten app for iOS devices shows drivers traffic signal data on the vehicle's multimedia screen in real time. Its objective is to ease city driving by helping motorists anticipate signal changes. BMW just announced that it is now integrating the app into its vehicles.
The app shows the current status of the traffic light in front of the car, as well as a countdown to when that signal will change. For example, when you're sitting there fuming at what you're certain is the longest red light ever, you'll have real-time info to calm your nerves.
"Based on the current vehicle position, as well as its speed, the EnLighten app offers a recommendation about whether or not to stop for the traffic light or proceed through," BMW said in a statement. "An audio alert notifies the driver about a pending change in the signal they are approaching."
The app will work on any BMW equipped with the BMW Apps option paired with the app on an iPhone. There is a catch, however: The system requires an integrated network of smart traffic signals. At the moment that means that the app will only work at the more than 2,000 smart signals in three cities: Portland and Eugene, Ore., and Salt Lake City.
"Connecting cars to traffic lights is nothing but positive," said Connected Signals founder and CEO Matt Ginsberg, in a promotional video. "We save gas; we make people safer; and we take the stress out of driving."
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