[asoneth]

Ok, I'll bite. Why would most people not consider using Google Maps and Spotify on your phone to be using your phone?

[gnicholas]

I think the argument for these two apps would be that it's essentially identical to using the nav system and audio system of your car.

If your phone is mounted and easy to reach, that's perhaps true. If you're holding it in your hand and looking down, it's less comparable.

[pests]

I think it's pretty clear cut that using your phone to do stuff is... using your phone.

If you want a dedicated gps or music player you can buy one.

In my area you can not use a phone at all while driving a motorcycle even for navigation.

You are allowed to buy a dedicated gps though.

[gnicholas]

In CA, the rules are now the same for cellphones and dedicated GPS units. The only exception is for "manufacturer-installed systems that are embedded in the vehicle". Taken literally, this means that if you have an aftermarket CarPlay-compatible head unit, it's illegal to touch it at all, other than to turn it on or off. [1]

It appears that new drivers are also forbidden from even looking at dash-mounted devices while driving. I get that they might be more easily distracted, and unable to give voice prompts while driving, but they presumably also need more help navigating, with advance lane change warnings, etc. Basically, these laws have not been especially well-calibrated, which is not surprising given that this is true for pretty much all laws regarding new technologies.

1: https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/does-california-law-...

[newZWhoDis]

Hilarious take.

Touch device with cellular radio physically attached to car: A-ok

Touch device with a radio not connected to the car? VERBOTEN.