BMW Offers EnLighten App Connectivity To Predict Traffic Signals

BMW claims to be the first carmaker to integrate a new app designed to help urban drivers anticipate traffic signals.

Created by a company called Connected Signals, the EnLighten app shows the current state of a traffic light in front of the car, including a countdown showing the time until the signal changes. It analyzes vehicle speed and position to determine whether or not to stop for a light or try to beat it, and makes those recommendations to the driver. The app also gives an audio alert if the driver is approaching a light that is about to change.

At intersections with dedicated lights for turns, the app can perform similar functions. Flicking a car's turn signal tells the software that the driver is planning to make a turn, and the app analyzes the appropriate parameters.

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EnLighten is compatible with all new BMW models equipped with the BMW Apps option, and a compatible iPhone to run the app. It's currently available as a free download through the Apple AppStore.