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Tag: CarPlay

  • Land Rover adds wireless CarPlay to old models as iOS 18.4 brings new features

    Land Rover adds wireless CarPlay to old models as iOS 18.4 brings new features

    Land Rover has surprised many by adding wireless Apple CarPlay to some of its older vehicles, including Range Rovers that are over 15 years old. The update uses “period-correct” hardware, meaning it fits well with the car’s original design. This upgrade was shown on a 2008 Range Rover Vogue and a 2012 Range Rover Sport. These systems now allow owners to use modern smartphone features without changing the look and feel of their classic cars.

    The CarPlay setup includes a new screen, control knob, and a special software system that connects wirelessly to iPhones. It blends old and new technology, letting drivers enjoy modern convenience while keeping the vintage style. Land Rover Classic says the upgrade was made to feel just like a factory install from the early 2000s.

    At the same time, Apple has released iOS 18.4, which brings three new features to CarPlay. First, drivers can now choose which service handles music requests through Siri — for example, asking Siri to always use Spotify instead of Apple Music. Second, the Messages app on CarPlay has an improved interface, making it easier to read and reply to texts. Lastly, the Podcasts app also gets a better design, showing more details and making it easier to use while driving.

    Together, these updates make both old and new CarPlay systems more useful and enjoyable for drivers.

  • CarPlay app now lets you stream videos in your car using a web browser

    CarPlay app now lets you stream videos in your car using a web browser

    A new app called Brcast has just arrived on the App Store, bringing a web browser to Apple CarPlay. This means drivers can now watch videos on their car’s screen by visiting websites like YouTube, Twitch, or others through the browser.

    Apple normally doesn’t allow web browsers or video streaming apps on CarPlay, but Brcast found a clever way to work around that. The app doesn’t break any rules because it doesn’t directly stream video through CarPlay. Instead, it mirrors what’s on your iPhone’s screen by using web technology in a smart way.

    To use the app, you install Brcast on your iPhone and open the website or video you want to watch. Then, it shows up on the CarPlay screen. It’s important to note that you’ll need to use your phone to control the app — the car’s screen only shows what’s already playing.

    Of course, this app is meant to be used while parked or by passengers. Watching videos while driving is not safe and should never be done. Brcast is free to download, but if you want more features — like saving your favorite websites — there’s a subscription option starting at $1.99 per month. This is a big step for CarPlay users who’ve been asking for more freedom, especially when it comes to video streaming.

  • Helpful CarPlay tips and features every driver should know

    Helpful CarPlay tips and features every driver should know

    Apple’s CarPlay is a great tool that helps drivers stay connected while keeping their eyes on the road. Whether you’re new to CarPlay or have used it for a while, these useful features and tips can help you get more out of it.

    First, wireless CarPlay is now common in newer vehicles, making it easy to connect without a cable. If your car only supports wired CarPlay, you can buy a wireless adapter to enjoy the same convenience.

    You can also rearrange the apps on your CarPlay screen. Just go to your iPhone’s Settings > General > CarPlay, then select your car and customize the layout. This makes it easier to reach the apps you use most.

    CarPlay works with many third-party apps like Spotify, Waze, WhatsApp, and more. Just make sure the apps are installed on your iPhone to use them in CarPlay.

    If you want to keep your iPhone unlocked while using CarPlay, you can change the setting by going to Settings > Face ID & Passcode > Allow Access When Locked.

    One last tip: you can turn off Siri suggestions if they feel distracting. Go to Settings > Siri & Search and turn off “Show Suggestions in App” for CarPlay.

    With these simple tips, CarPlay can become even more helpful for your daily drive.

  • Apple rolls out wireless CarPlay fix and Safari Tech Preview update

    Apple rolls out wireless CarPlay fix and Safari Tech Preview update

    Apple has released new software updates to improve the user experience for both iPhone and Mac users.

    First, iOS 17.4.1 and iPadOS 17.4.1 now come with a fix for a wireless CarPlay issue. Some users were facing problems with wireless connections, especially in certain car models. With this update, Apple has addressed the problem, making wireless CarPlay more reliable. If your car supports wireless CarPlay and you’ve had issues recently, updating to the latest version should help.

    At the same time, Apple also released Safari Technology Preview 217. This version is designed for developers and users who want to test upcoming web features before they’re added to the regular Safari browser. The update includes improvements in areas like performance, web animations, CSS, and more. It’s built on the Safari 17 engine, which means it works with macOS Ventura and macOS Sonoma.

    Safari Technology Preview is useful for those who want to explore new web technologies and give feedback. It can run alongside the regular Safari browser, so there’s no need to replace your main browser to try it out.

    Both updates show Apple’s continued focus on fixing issues and improving features across its ecosystem. Whether you use an iPhone in the car or test websites on a Mac, these updates aim to make your experience smoother and more reliable.

  • CarPlay issues in iOS 18.4 affect many car brands

    CarPlay issues in iOS 18.4 affect many car brands

    Apple’s latest update, iOS 18.4, has brought some trouble for CarPlay users. People driving cars from brands like Toyota, Honda, Ford, and BMW are reporting problems. The issues started after they updated their iPhones to this new version, causing CarPlay to act up in their vehicles.

    For some, CarPlay won’t connect at all. Others say it disconnects randomly while they’re driving. A few users even noticed their music or navigation apps freeze, making it hard to use. These glitches are annoying and can distract drivers, which isn’t safe.

    The trouble seems tied to how iOS 18.4 works with different car systems. Each brand has its setup, and the update might not play nice with all of them. Apple hasn’t said much yet, but they’re likely looking into it. For now, no quick fix is available.

    On social media, like X, drivers are sharing their frustrations. One Toyota owner wrote, “CarPlay keeps dropping since iOS 18.4—super annoying!” A Honda driver posted, “Navigation froze mid-trip. What’s up with this update?” People aren’t happy.

    If you’re having these issues, you could try restarting your iPhone or reconnecting CarPlay. Some say it helps a little, but it’s not a full solution. Another option is to wait for Apple to release a patch. They’ve fixed CarPlay bugs before, so a small update might come soon.

    Until then, drivers might need to rely on their car’s built-in system or skip CarPlay altogether. It’s a hassle, especially for those who love its features. Hopefully, Apple sorts this out fast so everyone can get back to smooth driving.

  • New goodies for CarPlay and iOS 18.4

    New goodies for CarPlay and iOS 18.4

    Apple’s iOS 18.4 update is bringing some cool stuff to CarPlay and your iPhone. For CarPlay, there are three neat upgrades. First, if your car has a big screen, you’ll see an extra row of app icons—perfect for quick access without swiping too much.

    Second, sports fans can cheer because a new tool lets apps show game scores right on CarPlay, though it might take a bit for apps to catch up. Third, in the EU, you can pick your favorite navigation app—like Google Maps—instead of sticking with Apple Maps, making Siri directions smoother.

    These changes make driving more fun and handy, especially if you’ve got the right car setup. On the iPhone side, iOS 18.4 adds a relaxing new feature: ambient music. You can tap a button in Control Center to play calm tunes for chilling, working, sleeping, or feeling good.

    There are four ready-made options, but you can swap them for your playlists. It’s simple to start, and a hidden mini-app lets you skip tracks or tweak the volume. While it’s only on iPhone and iPad for now (not Mac), it’s a nice way to unwind with just a tap. These updates show Apple’s working hard to make your tech life better, whether you’re on the road or kicking back at home. iOS 18.4 is almost here, so get ready to enjoy!

  • GM puts a stop to custom CarPlay upgrades

    GM puts a stop to custom CarPlay upgrades

    General Motors (GM) is taking strong action against a popular way people upgrade their cars with Apple CarPlay. Many drivers love CarPlay because it lets them use their iPhone apps, like maps and music, right on their car’s screen. However, GM has decided it doesn’t want this feature added to its older vehicles through unofficial methods.

    A company called Nifty City had been selling a kit that allowed GM car owners to add CarPlay to vehicles that didn’t come with it. This kit was a hit among drivers who wanted a modern touch in their older cars. But GM wasn’t happy about it. They sent a legal notice to Nifty City, telling them to stop selling the kit right away. GM says this kind of upgrade messes with their car systems and could cause safety problems.

    Nifty City shared the news with its customers, explaining that they had to pull the product off the market because of GM’s demands. They’re disappointed, and so are the drivers who were excited about the upgrade. Some people even wonder if GM just wants to push buyers toward newer models that already have CarPlay built in.

    This isn’t the first time GM has made headlines about CarPlay. Last year, they announced plans to drop CarPlay and Android Auto from their future electric vehicles, betting on their software instead. That decision upset a lot of fans who prefer the familiar feel of Apple’s system. Now, by blocking these custom kits, GM is doubling down on controlling how its cars work.

    For drivers who still want CarPlay in their older GM cars, this news is a letdown. They’ll have to stick with what their vehicle already has or look for other options—though those might be harder to find now. GM’s move shows they’re serious about keeping their tech their way, even if it leaves some customers frustrated.

  • Apple solves a big CarPlay problem

    Apple solves a big CarPlay problem

    Apple rolled out the iOS 18.4 beta on Friday, bringing some fresh and exciting updates. Among them are Priority Notifications powered by Apple Intelligence, a new Food category in the Apple News app, and a few other goodies. But there’s one smaller tweak that didn’t grab much attention—a change to CarPlay, especially for cars with bigger screens.

    A user named Jace noticed on Threads that CarPlay in iOS 18.4 now shows three rows of app icons instead of just two. This update makes better use of larger car screens, giving you more apps at a glance. Not every car gets this upgrade, though. The extra row only pops up on bigger displays, but it’s not clear exactly how big the screen needs to be.

    For example, MacRumors pointed out that it works on the Toyota Tundra, which can have a screen up to 14 inches. So, if your car’s screen is on the smaller side, you might not see this change yet. This update is a big win for drivers. Car screens keep getting larger, but CarPlay hasn’t always kept up, leaving some space on the display.

    With CarPlay 2 still not here, this fix is a nice in-between solution. It makes things more convenient, especially for people with big screens, by showing more apps at once. That means less swiping through home screen pages while you’re on the road. Overall, it’s a simple but smart move by Apple. For those with the right setup, it makes using CarPlay feel smoother and less cluttered.

  • Issues with the new CarPlay update

    Issues with the new CarPlay update

    Apple is facing some challenges with its CarPlay system. There are actually two main issues. First, the much-talked-about new version of CarPlay, which was introduced at WWDC 2022, hasn’t made its way into any cars yet. Apple promises it’s collaborating with various car makers to bring this update to life, but we’re still waiting.

    However, the bigger issue might be how Apple is overlooking the current version of CarPlay, which is already in millions of cars on the road.

    Apple’s CarPlay Dilemma

    Apple seems very focused on rolling out the new CarPlay, which is a big project needing close cooperation with each car manufacturer. While this is exciting, it will take years before it’s as common as the current CarPlay.

    Apple boasts that over 98% of new cars in the U.S. come with CarPlay, except for brands like Tesla, GM, and Rivian. Despite this success, the current CarPlay feels outdated to many users.

    Neglecting Current Users

    It appears Apple is adopting an all-or-nothing strategy. There are features from the new CarPlay that could improve the current system without needing manufacturer support. Since CarPlay mirrors the iPhone’s screen, Apple could enhance it via iPhone software updates.

    Possible Improvements for Current CarPlay Users

    • New Apps: Apple hasn’t added new built-in apps to CarPlay in a long while. For instance, adding a Weather app could be straightforward.
    • More Customization: Users can currently only rearrange app icons and choose from a few wallpapers. More options like custom themes, better control over the dashboard layout, or using any photo as wallpaper would enhance user experience.
    • Enhanced HomeKit Integration: CarPlay lets you control basic HomeKit devices, but there’s room for improvement. Adding more direct controls or a simplified Home app interface could be beneficial.
    • EV-Friendly Features: Apple Maps does a great job with EV routing in a few models, but it could offer more for EV users. Even without real-time battery data, features like better charger location mapping could be added.

    Conclusion

    While I’m excited about what the next CarPlay promises, I hope Apple doesn’t forget the millions of people using the existing version. They deserve updates that can make their driving experience better, even as the new system is developed. Right now, it feels like the current CarPlay is being left behind.

  • Apple updates CarPlay information, removes 2024 launch date

    Apple updates CarPlay information, removes 2024 launch date

    Apple has recently updated its website, removing the previously mentioned “2024” launch date for the next version of CarPlay. Just over three weeks into 2025, this change hints at a delay without specifying a new launch window.

    The next version of CarPlay was initially teased to come with cars in 2024, but as that didn’t happen, Apple has quietly adjusted its information. The website still talks about the upcoming CarPlay, suggesting it hasn’t been scrapped, but there’s no new timeline for when we might see it.

    It’s not clear who’s behind the delay – Apple, the car companies, or both. We’ve asked Apple for more details.

    Back in 2022, at WWDC, Apple gave us a first look at this advanced CarPlay. It would work closely with the car’s own systems, showing up on multiple screens like the dashboard and control panel. Features include an FM radio app, personalized widgets, and controls for the car’s climate directly from CarPlay, all tailored to match the brand and model of the vehicle.

    Even though the launch has been pushed back, there are signs it might still happen. New code in the latest iOS beta mentions CarPlay, and Apple has recently added new images to an EU database.

    Aston Martin and Porsche had shown off what their instrument clusters might look like with this new CarPlay, but they haven’t put it into use yet. Apple had promised support from a list of car makers including Acura, Audi, Ford, Honda, among others, though it’s uncertain if all are still on board.

    Apple’s recent statement reaffirms their commitment to the project:

    “The next CarPlay version is designed to blend Apple’s technology with each car maker’s unique style. We’re working with various car companies to make sure this happens, and they’ll share more when their new models are ready.”

    No new date was given for when we might see this updated CarPlay in action, keeping everyone guessing about its arrival.