Industry

Telematics

Client

Safety

Urban Mobility: Developing an Experience Centered on Safety

A concept for a safe driving app that redesigns phone and watch interfaces to discourage distraction while driving.

Problem. Distracted driving continues to be a major safety concern, with mobile devices being one of the most common sources of distraction. Notifications, color-rich interfaces, and constant accessibility create an environment that encourages users to check their devices even while driving. This split attention puts both the driver and others on the road at risk. Concept. Using the science of color and its effects on attention and awareness, our team developed the concept for SHFT. The app temporarily redesigns the interface of a user’s phone and watch while driving. By altering accessibility, navigation, and the overall feel of the device, SHFT creates an experience that discourages distraction and encourages drivers to keep their attention on the road. Solution. SHFT begins by shifting the device to greyscale. Research shows that removing color reduces the visual gratification associated with phone use, which limits stimulation of the brain’s reward system and decreases dopamine-driven engagement. By reducing these visual cues, the app lowers the urge to pick up a phone while driving and helps redirect focus back to the road.

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Structured Navigation Designed for Simplicity and Driver Safety

The interface is intentionally structured and rigid, limiting unnecessary handling while driving. Navigation is simplified so that only essential functions remain accessible, allowing users to stay connected when necessary without encouraging distraction. This focused design reduces decision-making and reinforces safer device habits on the road. Through this approach, SHFT demonstrates how thoughtful interface design and behavioral science can influence user behavior, showing that small changes to a device’s experience can reduce distraction and help drivers maintain focus where it matters most.