If Android smartphones can be connected to your car’s infotainment system using Android Auto without creating driving hazards, Apple iPhones can be utilized seamlessly in the same way via Apple CarPlay.
Here’s everything you need to know about Apple’s smartphone integration system and how it gives you the ability to safely use your iPhone’s features while you’re driving.
Apple CarPlay Features
Since Apple CarPlay launched in 2014, an increasing number of automakers are incorporating it into their vehicle systems. It is present in more than 80% of new vehicles sold in the US and is compatible with certain aftermarket car stereos for older vehicles.
The most important features of your iPhone are brought to the infotainment screen in your car via Apple CarPlay, along with a number of apps that have been modified for usage while driving. We’ll begin by describing a few native Apple apps, then go on to several third-party CarPlay-compatible apps.
Native Apple Apps & Third-Party Apps
With Apple CarPlay, all native Apple applications present on your iPhone can be operated through your built-in stereo or aftermarket radio. You can listen to your preferred music, make calls, send and receive messages, and obtain directions. All on the dashboard display of your car. Additionally, CarPlay now offers more app categories as well as personalized dashboard wallpapers. Here are the main apps that Apple highlights for CarPlay:
- Apple Maps
- iMessage
- Apple Music
- Calendar
- Audiobooks
- News+
- Podcasts
CarPlay also supports third-party apps of different categories on your iPhone, such as YouTube, Spotify, WhatsApp, Google Maps, Tidal, and many more – this also includes apps developed by car manufacturers so you can control more of your car’s features in Apple CarPlay.
Siri Voice Commands
To avoid having to look down at your iPhone while driving, use Siri on iOS and CarPlay to send voice messages. Additionally, you can speak to reply after having Siri read aloud your incoming texts. In order to keep everyone who needs to know informed, you can also ask Siri to share your ETA with someone from your contacts list while using Apple Maps.
Aside from listening and dictating your written messages, Siri can help you make calls, return missed calls, and listen to voicemail. You can also ask Siri to play music from Apple Music or tune in to your favorite live radio station.
Simply press and hold the voice control button on the steering wheel to turn on Siri voice control. In supported vehicles, you can also activate Siri by saying “Hey Siri.”
Touch / Analog Control Adaptability
CarPlay is compatible with the knobs, buttons, touchpad, and touchscreen in your vehicle. Additionally, the apps have been redesigned specifically for use in cars, allowing you to utilize them while keeping your hands and eyes in the proper places.
Apple CarPlay Compatibility
Apple CarPlay is available in over 600 vehicle models, from Toyota to luxury models like Ferrari. As for iPhones, here’s the full list of CarPlay-compatible iPhone models:
How To Connect To Apple CarPlay
When attempting to connect your iPhone to Apple CarPlay, you may use the Lightning connector that comes with the iPhone to connect your phone to the infotainment system in the majority of cars. the charging wire for the gadget. If CarPlay doesn’t open up automatically, you should be able to access it via a button labeled “CarPlay” in the infotainment system’s menu. CarPlay and the built-in infotainment system can be switched between at any time.
For CarPlay, some vehicles support Bluetooth. Although Bluetooth can be useful for short travels, it’s normally preferable to put your iPhone into the system because it will charge it at the same time.
Control your iPhone in a smart, safe, and convenient way on the road with Apple CarPlay . Here at Sonic Electronix, you’ll have plenty of Apple CarPlay Aftermarket Car Stereos available in single DIN and double DIN to choose from – including Sony, JVC, Pioneer, Kenwood, Alpine, and many more!
