In-car technology has progressed in leaps and bounds over the years, advancing from tape decks and radio to CD changers, USB ports and auxiliary inputs, meaning you can plug your music player in. Many new cars today are equipped with DAB digital radio and bluetooth connectivity – giving drivers limited access to music on their phones or wireless devices. However, Apple’s new CarPlay technology could potentially wipe out the competition with its game-changing suite of functionality.

The Problem

Many new cars are capable of connecting to your phone via bluetooth or USB, meaning you’re able to make calls, play music and even use the controls on your dashboard or steering wheel to control your phone. However, compatibility is generally limited, due to different phones’ various operating systems trying to sync up with the software controlling the in-car entertainment.

This causes safety problems, as drivers illegally reach for their phones while on the road in order to access additional features like maps, sending text messages and changing between music Apps such as iTunes and Spotify.

Is CarPlay The Solution?

Apple have created a version of iOS named ‘CarPlay’ specifically for in-car entertainment systems, meaning that your iPhone will integrate seamlessly with your car, allowing you access to features such as messaging, maps, music, other essential apps and, of course, phone functionality – all without taking your eyes off the road. All of these features can be controlled through the touch screen display on the dashboard, voice commands through Siri or physical buttons on the steering wheel.

The beauty of CarPlay is the fact that the majority of the software comes from the phone itself, with the screen passively displaying input from the iPhone. A car generally has a much longer lifecycle than a phone, and technology progresses very quickly. Meaning that, currently, in-car entertainment systems soon become obsolete – and drivers have to stick with the outdated technology until they buy a new car. However, CarPlay, as with iOS, has the ability to be updated – and this game changer means that, as new technologies emerge, your in-car entertainment can keep up.

Apple were keen to point out that CarPlay aims to improve car safety, stopping iPhone users reaching for their handset while driving. VP of Marketing at Apple stated that “iPhone users always want their content at their fingertips and CarPlay lets drivers use their iPhone in the car with minimised distraction”.

When Will It Be Available?

Apple have announced they already have deals with 13 car manufacturers, including Mercedes, Ferrari, Toyota, Ford and BMW – with more brands getting on board as the technology develops. The first cars featuring the technology are due to be launched this year and include the Volvo XC90, Mercedes C-Class and Ferrari FF. The new technology is potentially a major selling point for manufacturers, with iPhones now accounting for over 50% of all smartphones – giving manufacturers an already large established target market.

If you fancy getting your hands on a new car equipped with CarPlay, the Car Loan Warehouse can help. Our car finance experts work with dealers and lenders to find you the best finance deal going! Try out our quick and easy car finance calculator for an instant quote.