We’re all busy and, for most people in business, the mobile phone is an essential tool. Well, Happy Christmas! Canberra’s Australian Federal police has just tightened the screws on those who can’t wait another moment to check their phones while on the move. From Christmas Eve until after New Year’s Day, the penalty for using your mobile phone will be $386.00 and six demerit points.

Yep. Six demerit points. This means that over the Christmas break, in the eyes of The Force, even changing your Google Maps destination while sitting at a traffic light is will attract twice as many demerit points as driving through a stop sign at level crossing or running a red light.

Frighteningly, most people don’t realise that having a conversation with the phone in speaker mode is unacceptable under ACT law. Yep, you’ve got to go and shell out for an approved cradle for your phone to sit in. Shouting “Hey Siri! Answer the phone!” can still land you with a fine worth almost $400.00.

While you digest that, here are a few options to keep your eyes on the road.

 

 

Universal Phone Holder & Rapid Car Charger Kit
Kogan  $14.00

Yep, it’s cheap, but that’s because you don’t get much. There’s no Bluetooth functionality, and if you even look at the screen you can be fined. However, it’s useful for turn-by turn directions so long as you have them plugged in prior to hitting the road.

Perfect for: A quick cross-town delivery

 

 

Transmitter/Charger/Gooseneck In-car Holder
JayCar  $34.95

This one isn’t much of an advance on Kogan’s offering, but does allow you to conduct conversations using the car’s FM radio as a receiver. Sounds a bit clunky to us buy, hey…. it’s only thirtyfive bucks!

Perfect for: The long Christmas road trip

 

 

Jabra Freeway Bluetooth Car Kit
Dick Smith  $113.54

The first of the big guns. This is a totally legitimate and (almost) fully functional way to engage with your phone while on the move. It takes voice commands, features two microphones (for noise reduction) gives a nice, clear sound through three speakers.

Perfect for: Those who do a long daily commute

 

 

Parrot CK300 Evolution Bluetooth Hands Free Car Kit
JB Hifi $129.00

Now we're looking good. The parrot may require professional installation but, once you’re properly set up and dashing between meetings, you’ll love the flexibility that this hands-free offers. It may look expensive at $129.00, but that’s about one-third the cost of a fine.

Perfect for: The wheeler-and-dealer.

 

 

 

Plantronics Voyager Legend Bluetooth Headset
Apple  $129.95

Do you still have dreams of being Gordon Gecko in Wall Street’s horrible sequel Money Never Sleeps? Great! Grab yourself a Bluetooth earpiece and channel the charms every downtown douche from the 2000s.

Perfect for: Nobody. Seriously, do not buy this.