As an alternative to learning how to operate a new infotainment system, Honda is offering drivers the choice to use Apple CarPlay instead. By using an iPhone interface, you can enjoy the ease of navigating through a familiar system, keeping you safer on the road. Here are three awesome things you can look forward to with Apple CarPlay.
Crank Up the Tunes
Especially for those who have longer daily commutes, one of the best features of Apple CarPlay is the ability to access, expand, and enjoy your music library. By using apps like iTunes, iHeartRadio, and Spotify, there is no shortage of tunes for your drive; nearly any song imaginable is right at your fingertips.
In addition to music, you can listen to Podcasts, audiobooks, sportscasts, and even the news through Apple CarPlay. If you don’t want to eat up your data, consider downloading your favorite audio hits to your phone instead. Sitting in heavy traffic just got a little easier, and dare we say, enjoyable.
Staying Connected
Most drivers who have cars with Bluetooth capabilities are familiar with the ability to receive phone calls over the speaker system of the car. This feature is even easier to use with Apple CarPlay. You can send and receive calls with just the sound of your voice, keeping you concentrated on the road.
You can also send and receive text messages. Siri will read text messages aloud to you, to keep your eyes where they belong. You can have her respond to messages as well.
Siri Rides Shotgun
Siri, Apple’s digital assistant, also provides other convenient services through your Apple CarPlay system. She can help you control your music and find destinations.
Most notable is her ability to give you step-by-step directions to get you where you’re going. This is a feature most iPhone users are already dependent on, but now the voice-activated service can be used through the display of your car, keeping your hands on the steering wheel.
While Siri cannot access and activate certain features of your car, like adjusting the climate control, she still provides a new level of convenience to you as the driver, aimed to keep you safe on the road.
Compatibility
Because Apple CarPlay requires the use of a Lightning cable, only iPhone versions 5 and newer can be used with the interface. Your phone must also be operating on iOS 7.1 or above. After your phone updates, these changes will automatically be reflected when you connect your phone to your car. Please note that not all apps are compatible with Apple CarPlay, which means you can’t use them with the interface.
So far, Honda has announced that Apple CarPlay will be featured in the 2016 Accord, 2016 Civic, and 2017 Ridgeline. If you’re thinking about investing in a new Honda soon, consider asking your dealer about the models with the Apple CarPlay feature, so that you can hit the open road with added this convenience right at your fingertips.