Apple has managed to enter the automotive industry from a wide door. Apple Launched CarPlay in 2014 to overlay itself on top of a car’s factory-loaded infotainment system as a provider of different experience.

 

What is Apple CarPlay? And how does it work?

 

In short, it gives iPhone-wielding motorists a quick and convenient way to access the data stored on their device. CarPlay makes driving safer by reducing distractions, at least according to Apple and AAA, and it’s more user-friendly than many infotainment systems found in cars.

 

That’s because motorists can access a wide array of features without touching their mobile device, or taking their eyes off the road.

 

If you’re ready for iOS in your dashboard, here’s everything you need to know about Apple CarPlay. Not an iPhone user? Curious about what Android Auto is? We’ve got you covered. What can Apple CarPlay do? Apple CarPlay performs many of the same functions as an iPhone.

 

Motorists can use the software to get turn-by-turn directions, make calls, send and receive text messages, and listen to music or podcasts. The features are displayed on an easy-to-use interface with large icons that iPhone users will instantly recognize. The bulk of CarPlay’s features can be accessed using Siri, Apple’s digital assistant.

 

The iPhone’s screen is locked when CarPlay is active. The whole point of the software is to reduce distractions, after all.

 

Vehicle settings aren’t part of CarPlay, so the driver has to exit the application to adjust the climate control temperature, browse radio stations, or select a different driving mode.

 

While Google has helped automakers — notably Volvo — develop infotainment systems, no one has inked a similar partnership with Apple — at least not yet.

 

Which phones are compatible with Apple CarPlay?

 

Motorists who want Apple’s operating system in their dashboard need a compatible iPhone. Every iPhone since the 5 is CarPlay-friendly, though the device needs to run iOS 7.1 or newer for the app to work. You won’t be able to run CarPlay if you’re still using an iPhone with a 30-pin connector, or if you have an iPad. 

 

Which cars are compatible with Apple CarPlay?

 

A wide variety of models from all over the automotive spectrum are compatible with Apple CarPlay. They range from relatively basic cars such as the Chevrolet Spark to high-end supercars like the Lamborghini Huracan Evo. Volvo, Honda, Chevrolet, BMW, Ford, and Porsche are among the dozens of brands that offer CarPlay compatibility. Note that some companies make customers pay extra for the tech, while others include it as standard equipment.

 

Toyota spent years resisting CarPlay — and Google’s rival software, Android Auto — due to safety and privacy concerns. The Japanese firm recently changed its mind and started offering CarPlay on some of its models, including the 2019 RAV4, the 2019 Corolla Hatch, and the 2019 Avalon.

 

Toyota-owned Lexus also started rolling out the software in some of its cars like the ES and the RX. It’s safe to bet others will follow; the floodgates of consumer deman have now opened.

 

You Might Also Like