Mazda is to offer an optional smartphone control update for all new vehicles equipped with the company's human-centred MZD Connect multimedia system.

This will enable those of its customers who own iPhone to enjoy Apple CarPlay integration - letting you make phone calls, send messages, listen to Apple Music, and get directions with Apple Maps through Siri or the MZD Connect system safely whilst on the move. Android Auto integration is also available as an optional update, offering a similar range of features for customers with Android smartphones.



Moreover, existing Mazda owners whose vehicles are equipped with the MZD Connect multimedia system can now benefit from the retrofitting of either option.

Linked to MZD Connect via a USB port, Apple CarPlay may be operated by Mazda's HMI Commander rotary control knob and - whilst the vehicle is stationary - by the centre console touch screen. Similarly linked to MZD Connect, Android Auto is controlled by the Commander controller alone.

You have complete freedom to move back and forth between Apple CarPlay and Mazda's own system. In the interest of driving safety, CarPlay uses Siri to read out incoming iMessages and WhatsApp messages.

Using the Google Voice User Interface to control a similar range of functions, Android Auto also offers enhanced navigation technology with more Points Of Interest, continuous mapping updates, and additional aids such as 'Route Sent To Car' and 'Last 1 Mile’.

The update - including hard and software – will be available as an option on both new and existing Mazdas fitted with MZD Connect from 6th August 2018.