FAQs About Apple CarPlay
You’ve heard of iPhones, iPads and Mac Notebooks, but have you heard of Apple CarPlay? This is one of Apple’s products that didn’t quite take off like some of the others in mainstream news, but still, it is nothing short of incredible. Here’s everything you need to know about Apple CarPlay:
First, what is CarPlay?
Most newer car models have what is called an “infotainment” display, where motorists can look up directions, change the radio station, or connect their smart device to the stereo system. Apple CarPlay is Apple’s iOS solution for automobiles. It’s an infotainment interface for a number of cars that allows you to control certain apps or connected devices using voice and touch commands. Apple designed it to display info on the car’s built-in display, offering drivers a safe system for making calls, sending texts, listening to iTunes or accessing a variety of apps to help the make your drive more comfortable.
How do you connect your device?
Luckily, CarPlay technology does not come equipped with a thick instruction manual. Make sure that Siri is turned on and then, all you need to do to set up your iPhone and connect it to your car using a Lightning or USB port. Once it’s plugged in, a familiar screen with app icons will pop up on your car’s infotainment display.
Can you use Apple CarPlay with any car?
Unfortunately, you can only use this technology with cars that are equipped to support it. It’s still a fairly new technology, so the list may expand over the next few months or years. But for now, users can enjoy Apple CarPlay in over 100 different models of cars including the majority of 2016 Chevys, GMCs, and Cadillacs. Audi and Honda have pledged to incorporate this technology in new rollouts of their cars, and some Hyundai and Kia models are ready to support Apple CarPlay, but they require some software updates before they can come on board. Also, most Volkswagen vehicles can now support this feature, and Mercedez-Benz is slowly introducing it in newer models.
What is compatible?
Compatibility is the key. As long as you don’t have a device older than iPhone 5, you should be able to take advantage of this new interface. Make sure you update your iOS for the best results of connection. CarPlay features Siri voice control and integrated with Apple’s recent launch of the iPhone 7, the interface is more powerful than ever.
How does the navigation offer more control?
Once you have everything set up in your car, you can put your phone away for the rest of trip because you won’t need to touch it again. Control Apple CarPlay in one of three ways: using voice control commands through Siri, using the touch screen on your car’s infotainment display, or the buttons on your steering wheel. This completely eliminates the need for you to stare at your phone while you’re driving, so your focus can be 100% on the road in front of you.
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