Some require you to plug your phone in for the first time before connecting wirelessly every time afterwards. Others act as a wi-fi hotspot to which you can connect your phone.
Apple CarPlay in 2024
CarPlay received a big update in September 2024 to coincide with Apple’s iOS 18 software update.
It added a larger number of accessibility features, including new background and text colours, new voice commands and sound recognition, while Siri (Apple’s voice-control assistant) was made more effective.
The messages app will now display a profile image for each of your contacts, plus a new weather app will appear on the homescreen.
A larger update, dubbed CarPlay 2, is set to arrive this year, bringing with it a far more customisable interface. Aston Martin and Porsche will be the first brands to use this next-generation software.
What apps can I use through Apple CarPlay?
Not all apps are supported by CarPlay, but those that do will display on your car’s screen while you’re connected. Here’s a list of some of our favourites that are supported.
Spotify A popular music, podcast and audiobook streaming service.
Messages Apple’s Siri software will read out your received texts and allow you to send messages back via voice control.
Whatsapp The same as the above, plus the ability to make and receive phone calls.
Amazon Music A music streaming service.
BBC Sounds The BBC’s own app for streaming podcasts and radio.