Recent incidents involving individuals driving Tesla vehicles while wearing Apple Vision Pro VR headsets have sparked concern over safety and responsible technology use. The videos circulating online depict risky behavior, prompting criticism from various quarters, including U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.
Apple’s newly launched $3,499 Vision Pro VR headset has already seen misuse by some customers, with footage emerging of individuals wearing the device while driving. Notably, the headset features a “pass-through” mode allowing users to maintain awareness of their surroundings.
Reminder—ALL advanced driver assistance systems available today require the human driver to be in control and fully engaged in the driving task at all times. https://t.co/OpPy36mOgC
— Secretary Pete Buttigieg (@SecretaryPete) February 5, 2024
Despite clear instructions from Apple advising against using the VR headset while operating a moving vehicle or engaging in activities requiring attention to safety, instances of such behavior have surfaced. In one case, a person driving a Cybertruck was captured on camera by another motorist, drawing widespread condemnation.
Dante Lentini, identified as the individual in one of the videos, claimed the footage was part of a “skit” and denied being arrested for the stunt. Nevertheless, the incident has raised questions about the responsible use of emerging technologies in potentially hazardous situations.
Think different. #applevisionpro pic.twitter.com/dEALUsntS8
— Dante (@lentinidante) February 2, 2024
While Tesla has faced scrutiny for these incidents, it’s important to note that similar behavior could occur in vehicles equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems. Despite advancements in semi-autonomous driving technology, no vehicle, regardless of brand, is capable of fully autonomous operation.
Efforts to address safety concerns and promote responsible technology use remain paramount as innovations continue to reshape daily life. The attention garnered by these incidents underscores the importance of fostering awareness and adherence to safety guidelines in the adoption of new technologies.
