Mark Phelan

Detroit Free Press Auto Critic

CarPlay allows owners to use smart phones safely while driving

Other automakers do offer CarPlay, including GM and Honda

Android Auto does work for Google phones in Hyundai Sonata

Hyundai continues to work on Apple CarPlay for 2015 and '16 Sonatas

Hyundai will finally make Apple CarPlay available to Sonata owners in the first quarter of 2016, more than a year after the automaker initially promised the system.

Hyundai originally said CarPlay would be available in Sonatas during the 2015 model year.

Hyundai says owners will have to buy an SD card with new software to get the system. That contradicts the company’s earlier assurance that the system would be a free download for customers who bought a properly equipped 2015 or ’16 Sonata midsize sedan. Hyundai already offers Android Auto in the cars for Google phone users at no additional charge.

“Hyundai and Apple are committed to delivering drivers the best possible experience while using CarPlay in their vehicles,” according to a statement from Hyundai. “We are currently working together to complete CarPlay integration.”

CarPlay and Android Auto let drivers use their smart phones for navigation, music, phone calls and more safely while driving. The systems are a breakthrough for automakers, electronics and phone companies.

As we approach a year since I tested a prototype of the system, Hyundai has lost any claim to leadership. I recently tested several cars from Chevrolet and Honda in which CarPlay works very well.

Apple CarPlay first test: Siri is my co-pilot

Sonata owner Jack Pradillo of Carriere, MS, says CarPlay was not a determining factor when he bought his car. He’s looking forward to using the system when it is available, though.

Auto companies find themselves in an unaccustomed position when they work with smart phones. Car companies buy so much advanced tech that most suppliers treat them as preferred customers. When GM, Honda or Hyundai says “jump,” auto suppliers ask “How high?”

Automotive sales volumes and profits are small potatoes to Apple and Google, though. They get around to auto customers when they feel like it.

Contact Mark Phelan: mmphelan@freepress.com or 313-222-6731. Follow him on Twitter @mark_phelan