Inside Apple CarPlay
Apple is always looking to integrate its technology into the items we use every day. What started out as a computer evolved into a MP3 player, into a phone, and then into TV streaming capability. Now Apple has incorporated its expertise into our daily commutes with Apple CarPlay™ . But what exactly is it?
This intriguing new service from Apple is now available on select new cars. It’s as simple as hooking up your iPhone to your car’s built-in display. Since Apple CarPlay likely will be found in numerous vehicles on the road over the next few years, we’re here to bring you up to speed on this modern technology and help explain what Apple CarPlay adds to your vehicle.
Phone
Much like Bluetooth® technology, the Apple CarPlay system syncs with your iPhone’s contact book. You can make new calls, return missed calls, and listen to your voicemail while driving all by using voice commands to tell the Siri system what to do.
Messages and Emails
While texting or sending emails and driving is dangerous, with Apple CarPlay, doing this becomes quite simple and safe. Siri can read your incoming messages to you through your car’s sound system and can listen as you dictate your response through voice commands. You can tell Siri what to say and she’ll send the message so you don’t have to look down at your iPhone.
Maps
The Apple Maps app is an ideal navigation platform for most people, so having the Maps system in your car is convenient. Its powerful, simple design and functionality are brought right to your dashboard. Siri will call out your turn-by-turn directions, update you on traffic conditions, and estimate your travel time. The CarPlay system can even anticipate your next destination by finding addresses in your calendar, messages, and contacts and sending them into Maps so you don’t have to worry about copying and pasting.
iTunes
The CarPlay system lets you wirelessly access all of your music in your iPhone. You can control which song or podcast is next on your playlist or on iTunes radio with your vehicle’s built-in controls or you can tell Siri what artist or song you want to be played next.
App Integration
Apple CarPlay also gives you the potential to utilize your favorite apps through your car’s display system. These include other music, news, and sports apps so you can stay connected to the outside world without checking your iPhone while driving.
The Apple CarPlay system essentially turns your vehicle’s built-in display into a giant iPhone that doesn’t require you to look away from the road to use it. The ability to use Siri to update you on important information brings a whole new element to automotive infotainment.
If you’re someone who loves the functionality of the iPhone and the Apple platform and prefers it over your vehicle’s built-in infotainment center, the Apple CarPlay system is perfect for you.
If you’re interested in learning more about how Apple will contribute to the automotive industry in the future, you can download our free eBook Apple iCar: Apple’s Auto Industry Experiment.
