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Apple CarPlay – Companion throughout your drive

Last Updated on 4 years by admin

If you own an iPhone then you should consider choosing a car that supports Apple CarPlay. This option should be one of the top priorities while you consider changing your vehicle.

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Apple CarPlay

How it makes your ride safe?

CarPlay frees your hands from other activities and lets your hands be on the wheel. It also supports voice commands through Siri. You can think of the carplay as a smarter and safer way to operate your Apple Phone while driving.

Apart from the calling and texting functions CarPlay also supports Maps and Music. All this is possible with your existing player buttons and multi-function steering wheel buttons. Stay connected and focused with CarPlay.

Is Apple CarPlay available in the market?

Yes, Apple CarPlay available however not all the car manufacturers include this feature. It is something that spreads widely therefore sooner more cars will have this included. According to web research currently, there are more than 500 car models with CarPlay. In 2018 the supported number was around 100 models, that shows the wide growth.

Aftermarket head units with CarPlay support

If your current vehicle doesn’t support this feature also have the option to upgrade your stereo to a model that supports CarPlay. However, the aftermarket head units may not support all features but it is one option that you should choose. Since the Apple CarPlay is becoming famous there are rumors that even aftermarket units may increase its price. If you are interested in finding out whether your dream car comes with CarPlay click the link below.

Here is a list of all supported car models from Apple official website.

Get to know whether your car supports CarPlay or Tricks to get it to work

Since most car models which were released after 2016 came with this feature. You can try this simple trick to find whether the car supports Apple CarPlay. Look for a USB port closer to the car stereo, or the dashboard, some can be even hidden with a cap. 

If you have the USB port, try plugging your iPhone 5 for higher model and check whether the message “CarPlay” pops up. If it does then you are one of the luckiest. Even if it doesn’t work that way, there are many more options to try. So don’t get disappointed.

If you own a 2015 or 2016 Ford vehicles equipped with Sync 3, but without CarPlay you can upgrade for $50. The steps will be available in our guide soon.

If you didn’t get lucky with both of the above options still you have a chance. You can upgrade the head unit with the latest CarPlay supported model for around $150 which is still so much cheaper than changing the car. You can find Some awesome models on eBay with great reviews. 

Here is another upcoming Sony XAV-AX8000 receiver which will suit you well with Apple CarPlay option.

Apple handset models that are compatible

You should own an iPhone 5 or a higher handset to successfully connect with CarPlay. The list shows it all below.

Apple iPhone XSiPhone XS MaxiPhone XR
iPhone XiPhone 8iPhone 8 Plus
iPhone 7iPhone 7 PlusiPhone 6s
iPhone 6s PlusiPhone 6iPhone 6 Plus
iPhone SEiPhone 5/ 5siPhone 5c
Car Play Support

Tips to use

CarPlay is quite simple to use. Especially, everything in the including the interface looks familiar to iOS. Except for the bigger screen, icons, and some physical buttons. All you need to do is tap on the app that you need to use on CarPlay. The menu button will support you with the navigations. In the lower corner, also, you can find a home button that will help you return to the main screen.

In the meantime, if you need Siri’s support for CarPlay voice commanding, dialing and selecting the write music track for your trip. Press and hold the on-screen Home Button or a button on your steering wheel. It will help you activate Siri.
Recommended only for passengers – The CarPlay also can be controlled using an iPhone. You can use the connected Apple mobile for selecting contacts, text, music selection, etc.

Adding Apps

CarPlay only displays the apps which are available on your similar to mirroring. Therefore once Apple CarPlay is activated it will list all applications currently installed on your iPhone. However, there are some apps that aren’t compatible with CarPlay, therefore, you might have to do some research on that. These are some of the compatible app’s Music streaming, sports, podcasts including MLB at BAT, Spotify, Pandora, NRR One.

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Apple CarPlay – Companion throughout your drive
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