The age group less likely to use DND while driving

The ‘Do Not Disturb While Driving’ feature, built into iOS and Android mobile devices, has been helping drivers stay focused for nearly a decade by silencing notifications behind the wheel. Despite its simplicity and effectiveness, adoption remains limited because drivers must opt in. A new survey of more than 1,000 drivers shows awareness is climbing, but usage trends tell a mixed story.

According to a Cambridge Mobile Telematics report, awareness reached 71 per cent in 2025, up from 62 per cent last year, with older drivers leading the surge. Drivers aged 45 to 60 reported an 18 per cent increase in awareness, while those over 60 saw a 63 per cent jump. For the first time, drivers aged 30 to 44 reported higher awareness than those aged 18 to 29. Among younger drivers, awareness dropped 4 per cent.

Usage overall rose slightly to 29 per cent, a 9 per cent increase from 2024, but younger drivers are turning away. Adoption among drivers aged 18 to 29 fell 35 per cent year over year, returning to 2023 levels. Meanwhile, older drivers embraced the feature more, with usage up 45 per cent among those aged 45 to 60 and 67 per cent among drivers over 60.

Platform trends also shifted. Android users now lead in adoption, with 34 per cent using DNDWD frequently — a 62 per cent increase from last year — while iOS usage dropped 20 per cent to 24 per cent. Hands-free laws are also influencing behaviour, with 41 per cent of users citing legislation as a reason for activating the feature, up from 31 per cent in 2024.

Most users believe DNDWD improves safety, with 77 per cent saying it makes them safer and 88 per cent agreeing roads would be safer if more drivers used it. Resistance persists among non-users, who cite concerns about missing calls, inconvenience and believing the feature is unnecessary. Among those newly aware of DNDWD, only 22 per cent plan to use it, down 49 per cent from last year.

The report highlighted that while awareness is at record highs and older drivers are adopting the feature, younger drivers are disengaging and resistance among new users is growing. The report noted that stronger promotion and education will be needed to turn awareness into consistent use and deliver on the promise of safer roads.

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