I have assumed that if the mobile device is in a secure dashboard holder and being used as a Sat Nav then you'd be allowed to prod it occasionally - as you might with any sat nav. Is this wrong?
depends on how you define prod ? you cannot re programme a GPS while driving and most GPS systems won't allow it unless you turn off the facility which is not very wise.
Phones in holders it is allowed to hit a button to accept a call or cancel but not to scroll for a number or text.