Johannesburg, 16 Mar 2016
messageLOUD, an Android smartphone app that automatically reads your texts and e-mail out loud so you can drive safer, today announced a valuable new feature of its service: reading WhatsApp messages out loud.
The addition of WhatsApp support addresses the needs of hundreds of millions of drivers around the world, who rely on WhatsApp in place of traditional text/SMS and other messaging services. messageLOUD was designed with a singular purpose: to increase safety and eliminate distracted driving. As such, messageLOUD will continue to add support for additional popular messaging platforms so people can put their phones down and drive safe, without missing any important communication.
Easter is a notorious time for high traffic deaths in South Africa. This increased to 287 fatalities in 2015, compared to 193 the previous year. Drivers continue to be reckless and negligent despite calls for heightened road safety. Research has shown a high proportion of South African drivers are guilty of SMS'ing, e-mailing, WhatsApp messaging or using social media while driving.
The introduction of WhatsApp to the suite of platforms supported by messageLOUD, significantly enhances the company's goal in the region. WhatsApp is the second most popular messaging network in South Africa with over 10 million users.
"As the most popular messaging apps in the world, WhatsApp was a logical addition to messageLOUD's portfolio of messaging support. The inclusion of WhatsApp will encourage consumers to put their phones down, yet stay connected to the outside world while driving," said Garin Toren, founder and CEO of messageLOUD. "We will be adding support for other types of personal and business messaging this year, so drivers can stop the deadly practice of texting and driving."
messageLOUD is available for download at the Google Play Store. The service is free for the first 30 days, then R99.99 to purchase.
Here's how it works:
* Simple, one-time sign-in with your e-mail address (messageLOUD supports Gmail, Microsoft Exchange, Outlook, Hotmail and Yahoo email accounts.)
* When you get in your car, tap the messageLOUD icon and set to DRIVEmode.
* Now all your SMSes, WhatsApp messages and e-mail will automatically be read out loud.
* Bluetooth compatible.
* Customisable auto-responder for incoming texts.
* Customisable settings to best serve your needs: such as personalizing contacts to allow or ignore.
* Tailor which messages you want read out loud.
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