THE HAGUE, Netherlands (AP) – A telecom company in the Netherlands has developed a bicycle lock that also blocks its mobile network, in a move aimed at protecting young riders who regularly pedal through busy streets while looking at their phone.
An app opens the lock and simultaneously blocks the KPN cellular network, meaning that the cyclist’s phone can only be used to call emergency services. Once the bike is locked using the app, the cellphone will work again.
The app, developed with the country’s traffic safety authority, does not stop users listening to music stored on their phone, but would prevent them playing streaming content.
The Dutch Traffic Safety Association said Wednesday that the “Safe Lock” is expected to go on sale by the end of the year for around 100 euros ($110).
The association said that one in five bicycle accidents involving children is caused by smartphone use.