Most modern cars already have some form of Bluetooth integration. What this means is that instead of putting on a headset, you can take and make calls using the car’s Bluetooth speakerphone. But in case your car is a bit older or doesn’t have built-in Bluetooth, you can always invest in a Bluetooth car speakerphone that will free up your hands and help you focus more on the road, less on the phone.

Here’s how it works: If you get a call on your cell phone, you can use your Bluetooth headset to answer it. This is comparatively less annoying than answering a phone directly. But many people don’t like wearing headphones or find that they distract them from driving. Consequently, most modern cars come equipped with Bluetooth car speakers. They are usually built into the steering wheel. When you receive a call, you can press a button (located on the steering wheel) or use a voice command to answer or reject it. This completely frees your hands and distracts you even less from driving than a standard headset.

If your car doesn’t already have Bluetooth integration, you can purchase these speakers separately and connect them to your steering wheel. Most of these speakers will feature a microphone and speaker (for calls), an LCD screen (to show you who’s calling), an SD port (for storing MP3s), and a USB port (for storing anything else). A Bluetooth car speaker can also double as an MP3 player or USB drive. Some also have a built-in FM transmitter.

Many Bluetooth car speakers are battery-powered, while others rely on a power source (usually the car’s cigarette lighter). The latter is not a highly recommended option as you will basically be tethering the steering wheel with a cable, which, despite the precautions you can take, is definitely a safety hazard.

If you’re the busy professional who can’t afford to miss calls when you’re on the go, investing in a Bluetooth car speakerphone should be a priority. It significantly reduces the risk of accidents and makes the experience much smoother and more seamless. No more playing with headphones and mobile phones; simply speak directly into the wheel to answer calls. In addition, its speakers can also function as a USB drive, MP3 player, and FM transmitter. If that’s not high tech, then I don’t know what is.

The Motorola T505 ROKR Bluetooth Car Speakerphone is highly recommended. It has everything you would want in a car bluetooth speaker. It fits perfectly on the steering wheel and allows you to make and receive calls directly. It announces the name of the caller, it has a full FM transmitter that announces the name of the station, it is rechargeable (can be charged in the car itself) and it also includes an MP3 player. Another device to consider is the Jabra S500, which is a cheaper alternative to the Motorola T505.