Apple announced that select auto manufacturers are rolling out CarPlay, which the tech developer says is a smarter, safer and more fun way to use iPhone in the car.CAPTION
Apple says certain automakers are rolling out CarPlay, which the tech developer says is a smarter, safer and more fun way to use iPhone in the car.
The software is an update to iOS 7 and works with Lightning-enabled iPhones, including iPhone 5s, iPhone 5c and iPhone 5. CarPlay will be available in some cars shipping in 2014.
According to the company, with a word or touch, CarPlay gives iPhone users in the car a way to make calls, use maps, listen to music and access messages. Users can control CarPlay from the car’s interface or push and hold the voice control button on the steering wheel to activate Siri “without distraction,” notes Apple.
CarPlay also supports some third-party audio apps including Spotify and iHeartRadio.
Once iPhone is connected to a vehicle with CarPlay integration, Siri helps the user access contacts, make calls, return missed calls or listen to voicemails. When incoming messages or notifications arrive, Siri allows the user to respond to requests through voice commands, by reading drivers’ messages and letting them dictate responses or make a call.
Apple says vehicles from Ferrari, Mercedes-Benz and Volvo will premiere CarPlay to their drivers this week at the Geneva Auto Show, while additional auto manufacturers bringing CarPlay to their drivers down the road include BMW Group, Ford, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Jaguar Land Rover, Kia, Mitsubishi, Nissan, PSA Peugeot Citroën, Subaru, Suzuki and Toyota.
