Apps that know when texters are walking into an intersection
There are also apps that try to tackle texting while walking. Type n Walk lets users text while the camera shows them what's ahead. (Although it doesn't work with iMessage.) The app Audio Aware pauses music if it detects a siren or screeching tires.
In 2015, Rutgers University engineers designed an app that senses when people using phones are walking into traffic, according to The Wall Street Journal. When they do, it locks their phone screens. Currently, there are two different versions: one that taps into a phone's GPS and another that works with shoe sensors.
Honolulu, Hawaii — a fine up to $99
On October 23, Honolulu's law against texting while walking went into effect.
Mayor Kirk Caldwall said that the city's "unfortunate distinction of being a major city with more pedestrians being hit in crosswalks, particularly our seniors, than almost any other city in the county," as the primary reason for the mandate, according to Reuters.
Salt Lake City, Utah — a $50 fine
In 2012, the Utah Transit Authority instituted a $50 civil fine for "distracted walking," including phone use, while crossing Salt Lake City's light rail tracks. Repeat offenses could cost $100. The ordinance never become state law, however.
"Anecdotally, it has changed the way people behave, and they are [crossing the street] the right way more often," UTA General Manager Mike Allegra told The Salt Lake Tribune.
Augsburg, Germany — embedded lights in the sidewalks
In 2016, city officials in Augsburg, Germany installed red lights on its sidewalks near tram tracks so that phone users wouldn't need to look up.
"It creates a whole new level of attention," city spokeswoman Stephanie Lermen told local outlet NTV.
Hong Kong, China — anti-phone announcements in subways
Since 2013, passengers who ride Hong Kong's subways have heard the announcement, "Don't keep your eyes only on your mobile phone."
The phrase is read by a monotone voice in three languages on both the train cars and escalators.
Chongqing, China — a lane only for phone users
A popular stretch of sidewalk in Chongqing, China was designated for phone users in September 2014.
The project was meant to encourage people to be more mindful of their phone use.
Predictably, it's not been so successful. Hordes of people are stopping to take photos of the special sidewalk, BBC News reported.
Hayward, California — signs that tell pedestrians to put down their phones
The city of Hayward, California installed seven snarky signs in early 2015, including one that reads, "Heads up! Cross the street, then update Facebook."
Another sign in the series reminded drivers to slow down, reading "35 mph — it's a speed limit, not a suggestion."
Stockholm, Sweden — signs that warn drivers of texting pedestrians
Swedish designers Jacob Sempler and Emil Tiismann created these traffic signs for Stockholm in November 2015.
"One morning when I walked to work, I almost got run over by a car, because I was staring at my stupid smartphone," 29-year-old Sempler previously told Business Insider. "I looked around and realized that I wasn't the only one."
They were installed in three different locations.
"The thing is though, that the people who really need to see this sign, are most likely just gonna pass it with their eyes glued to their screens," he said.
