Officials respond to rumoured GPS app ban with | Tech News

Last week, a flurry of TikTok videos despatched tens of hundreds into a frenzy with claims that the Department of Transport was set to outlaw the use of GPS apps on smartphones whereas driving from 2026. The viral videos warned that utilizing apps like Google Maps may land drivers with a hefty £200 high-quality and 6 factors on their licence.

The clips even went so far as claiming that motorists would no longer be allowed to even have their telephones mounted on dashboards, and could not use voice instructions or hands-free options within the apps.

But the Department of Transport has put the brakes on these rumours, confirming to MoneySuperMarket that there is no fact to them. It clarified: “While it is illegal to hold or use a phone whilst driving, you can use devices with hands-free access, as long as you do not hold them at any time.

“There has been no change of guidelines round this, as instructed by this online video.”

Alicia Hempsted, car insurance guru at MoneySuperMarket, added: “Incorrect info can unfold shortly on social media, so truth checking what you hear, notably about important topics like highway security, is essential. We’re grateful to the Department of Transport for clarifying that there are no plans to change the foundations for sat nav use.

“This means that you can use your phone as a sat nav, but it must be secured in a fixed mount, and you must not touch it any point while driving. Also, the mount you use for your phone must not block the driver’s view of the road ahead.”

While no adjustments to the present guidelines are deliberate, stringent restrictions do stay in place concerning the use of telephones and gadgets whereas driving, even whether it is to use these apps.

Currently, it is unlawful to maintain or deal with a cell phone, sat nav, or sensible machine whereas driving or supervising a learner, even when the vehicle is stationary. This contains minor interactions with your machine, like scrolling via choices, checking site visitors alerts, or inputting new locations.

However, you might be allowed to use your smartphone or sat nav whereas driving supplied there’s no bodily contact with the machine during your journey and it’s mounted securely, permitting for hands-free operation reminiscent of voice instructions.

The Highway Code states: “You can get six penalty points and a £200 fine if you hold and use a phone, sat nav, tablet, or any device that can send and receive data while driving or riding a motorcycle. You’ll also lose your licence if you passed your driving test in the last two years.

“You can get three penalty factors should you do not need a full view of the highway and site visitors forward or correct control of the vehicle.”

Should the matter attain court docket, motorists face a driving ban alongside a most penalty of £1,000 – rising to £2,500 for these behind the wheel of a lorry or bus.