Apple Carplay | How it Works & How To Get It!
Over the years reviewing every car under the sun, my focus has shifted a lot to tech inside the vehicle. It seems like it gets more advanced each year! While I cannot always predict the latest and greatest, one element is here to stay: Apple Carplay.
Although I’m usually quite picky about vehicle technology, Apple has created a newer and safer way to drive I just love! So let’s dive in and chat all about exactly how Apple Carplay works and how to get it in your current vehicle.
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Introduction to Apple Carplay
What is Apple Carplay exactly? While the term is quite broad, Apple has allowed your phone and car to integrate together for a safe and convenient driving experience.
By connecting your phone to your vehicle’s built-in display, you are able to:
Get directions
Receive texts
Make calls
Enjoy your favorite music
While we have seen this kind of technology available through Bluetooth connection before Apple Carplay, the connection is a more seamless experience. Speaking from personal experience, I enjoy my experience using this feature more than anything pre-made within an infotainment system. It’s just like looking at my phone!
Compatible Vehicles and Requirements
Coming out in 2014, Apple Carplay is still a relatively new feature that is just recently becoming standard on vehicles. From luxury to more affordable car manufacturers, the list of compatible car models continues to grow.
To check if your vehicle supports Apple Carplay, visit the official Apple Carplay website or consult your car's user manual. Keep in mind that older car models might require a firmware update or additional hardware for compatibility, so it's always a good idea to double-check.
How To Set Up Apple Carplay
Everything is good to go! So, now what? Setting up Apple Carplay is a breeze, and you'll have it up and running in no time. The first step is to ensure you have a compatible iPhone with the latest iOS version. Next, connect your iPhone to your car's infotainment system using a USB/USB-C cable or, if supported, through a wireless connection.
Once connected, you'll see the familiar Apple apps on the screen of your car's display. Follow the on-screen prompts to grant necessary permissions and configure your preferences. Don't forget to enable Siri for hands-free control, making it safer and easier to navigate through the various features while keeping your eyes on the road.
Alternatives to Apple Carplay
While Apple Carlay is a really well developed piece of car technology, there are alternative options available to cater to different preferences and phone ecosystems. Another popular option is Android Auto, which offers similar functionality for Android smartphone users. Android Auto has the same seamless integration, just with the known apps for these phone users.
Additionally, some car manufacturers offer their proprietary systems, like MirrorLink or Mazda Connect, which provide their own unique set of features and compatibility. Although I am quite partial to Apple Carplay, it's worth researching and exploring these alternatives to find the one that best suits your needs and the devices you already own.
Is Apple Carplay Really Worth The Hype?
It never fails to amaze me how safe driving has become. With technology advancements like Apple CarPlay, there is no longer the excuse to have your phone out on the road. With the endless schedules and new places to go with my kids, having an integrative system that I feel comfortable with ensures a smooth ride no matter what.
If you have the option to add Apple Carplay into your vehicle, I wholeheartedly urge you to go for it! Let me know what you think about this phone to car integrative technology in the comments.
Thinking of a new vehicle for your family, but not sure what would be the most practical? Check out some of my recent car tours:
