Patently Apple:

> The system relates to improving detectability of road signs and vehicles on the road in low visibility conditions like fog or snow with a plurality of retroreflectors. For instance, if traveling on the road in a snow storm and road signs are covered in snow, a retroreflector system, using radar, would be able to read the text under the snow and relate it to the driver on a CarPlay display and/or other device display.

This is an interesting invention, shows Apple is still going down the Project Titan road, has value for a human driver.

But, it seems to me, the future of road signs and low-visibility hazard warnings (a car stuck in the middle of the roadway in a snowstorm, for example), is digital, not analog. In addition to flashers and reflectors, which are great for humans, signs/on-board hazard signals designed for automated vehicles will be equipped with high speed communications targeted at all nearby traffic.

Indeed, as technology advances, the transition from traditional analog road signs to digital solutions is becoming increasingly evident. This evolution is particularly significant for automated vehicles, which will benefit greatly from high-speed communications that can interact with all nearby traffic. Digital systems can offer real-time hazard warnings and dynamic updates, enhancing safety and efficiency on the roads. The integration of such technology into everyday driving is crucial for keeping pace with the advancements in vehicle automation and connectivity.

In the realm of car accessories, innovations like the tesla steering wheel exemplify this shift towards advanced, tech-driven solutions. Designed to provide a seamless driving experience, the Tesla steering wheel incorporates features like built-in controls and touch-sensitive surfaces, offering drivers enhanced convenience and control. As we move towards a future where digital communication and automation become standard, such accessories not only improve driving comfort but also align with the growing trend of integrating high-tech solutions into vehicles, making the road safer and more intuitive for all users.

The rub here is that time in between, where both human and automated traffic share the road.