Without a doubt, many people out there are looking for a good Apple CarPlay screen for their car. If you already have CarPlay in your car, you know why it’s so popular. To be honest, most automotive infotainment systems are awful. Sure, they’ve been improving recently. However, not everyone is looking for a new car.
Also, why bother with a proprietary infotainment system when you can just use your iPhone to access all of the excellent apps? Of course, the same can be said with Android Auto. That takes us to the focus of this guide. Below, we’ll be having a look at how to add Apple CarPlay to your car. So, stay tuned as we dig in!
What is Apple CarPlay?
Apple CarPlay is Apple’s in-car infotainment system, which has been available since 2014. CarPlay, according to Apple, is a smarter and safer way to use your iPhone while driving. Instead of having to look at your phone while driving, everything will be displayed on the vehicle’s infotainment touchscreen.
Apple CarPlay allows drivers to control apps via the touchscreen and mirrors some of the apps found on iPhones. With that, you can access Siri and Apple Maps while driving, as well as play music, make phone calls, and have the app read your text messages.
How to Add Apple CarPlay to Your Car
Option 1: Get an OEM Retrofit
If your car was built after 2014 but does not have the CarPlay add-on package, you may be able to retrofit it with an OEM (original equipment manufacturer) upgrade. Contact a service center that specializes in servicing your specific brand of automobile to find out for sure.
It’s possible that unlocking CarPlay will merely require a software update, or you’ll be given the option of replacing the hardware. The cost of the update will vary depending on the work that needs to be done, but you should be able to acquire a free quote before making a decision.
Option 2: Change Your Car’s Head Unit
If your car is older than 2014, your OEM doesn’t provide an update, or the cost of an OEM refit seems too high, you might want to consider changing the head unit. Many head units now support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with extra capabilities such as reversing cameras and object sensors sometimes included as well.
The most difficult obstacle you’ll face is finding a head unit that works with your vehicle’s make and model. Getting in touch with a local auto audio professional is the best way to learn about your options, but it may also be the most expensive.
Option 3: Make Use of Bluetooth
If your car already has Bluetooth, you might well be able to use most smartphone features wirelessly. This includes making and receiving phone calls, getting turn-by-turn instructions, and listening to music or podcasts. With that, you can have access to add Apple CarPlay to your car.
Wrapping it Up
These are the basic ways to add Apple CarPlay to your car. Hopefully, you find this guide quite helpful. If so, don’t hesitate to drop your comments below!
