Toshiba has developed in-car facial recognition technology that will increase road safety by eliminating the need to take hands off the steering wheel.

The technology will aid in altering and controlling the electronic devices like radio and AC with facial expressions, wired.com reports.

In addition, the facial recognition system can be used to detect drowsiness and distraction.

This was achieved by tracking the driver’s pupils and facial orientation to detect head movement, eye direction and blinking patterns by mounting a camera above the wheel.

The algorithms compare what the camera captures to a database of face images and movements to detect what the driver wants or needs.

The system collaborates with advanced driver assistance systems and human-machine interface programs to alert the driver.