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Tag: CarPlay

  • Apple lets you stream videos in your car with AirPlay

    Apple lets you stream videos in your car with AirPlay

    Apple is making it easier to watch videos in your car by adding AirPlay support to CarPlay. With this new feature, you’ll be able to stream videos from your iPhone or iPad directly to your car’s built-in screen. This means you can enjoy movies, shows, or other video content while parked, using your car’s display instead of just your phone or tablet.

    The feature, called “AirPlay for CarPlay,” will first arrive in certain cars starting in 2025. Apple says it’s working with car makers to bring this update to more vehicles in the future. The company hasn’t shared a full list of which cars will get this feature yet, but more details are expected soon.

    It’s important to note that video streaming will only work when the car is parked, so drivers aren’t distracted while driving. This is similar to how some car entertainment systems already block video playback when the car is moving.

    With AirPlay for CarPlay, you won’t need any extra cables or complicated setups. Just connect your iPhone or iPad to your car, and you’ll be able to stream videos wirelessly. This update is part of Apple’s ongoing efforts to make in-car entertainment better and more convenient for everyone.

    In summary, starting in 2025, some cars will let you use AirPlay to stream videos from your Apple devices straight to your car’s screen, making road trips and waiting in the car more enjoyable.

  • Apple CarPlay Ultra fixes a major wireless issue in cars

    Apple CarPlay Ultra fixes a major wireless issue in cars

    Apple has released CarPlay Ultra, a big improvement that resolves a common issue that many vehicles currently have. Thanks to this new version, you can now use CarPlay wirelessly in cars that only have a USB video connection.

    In most cases, wireless CarPlay needs to be used in cars that are built with the special hardware needed for wireless video streaming. Many vehicles that depend solely on USB for video aren’t compatible with wireless CarPlay. With CarPlay Ultra, Apple is making it easier.

    With this feature, video compression and streaming are performed quickly and over USB so you don’t miss a thing. It also gives cars without this feature the ability to use wireless CarPlay. People who would like to avoid having to carry or plug in cables find it especially helpful.

    Studies show that CarPlay Ultra gives the same, smooth experience as standard wire-free CarPlay for the vast majority of users. The changes are forecasted to help older cars and those at the low end of the market.

    During the WWDC 2024 event, Apple exhibited CarPlay Ultra and confirmed that the first vehicles equipped with it will appear in late 2025. With this update, many more drivers could start to use wireless CarPlay.

    All in all, CarPlay Ultra makes CarPlay accessible without cables in many more cars, even those that have limited tech already, making life easier.

  • Apple should boost CarPlay for electric cars

    Apple should boost CarPlay for electric cars

    Apple’s CarPlay makes it easy to use your iPhone in the car, letting you access apps safely on the road. However, for electric vehicle (EV) owners, CarPlay falls short. Its EV routing tool, which plans trips with charging stops, only works with a small number of models, like the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Porsche Taycan. This leaves most EV drivers without proper support.

    The issue is that CarPlay’s charging and battery tracking features depend on carmakers sharing live battery data, and only a few do. Meanwhile, rivals like Google’s Android Auto face similar challenges, but some automakers are creating their own EV-friendly systems. For instance, General Motors is phasing out CarPlay in its electric models to build custom software that better handles navigation and charging needs.

    To stay ahead, Apple could add features that don’t rely on carmakers, like improved charger finders or simple battery range predictions. Including more EV-focused apps, such as those for locating charging stations or optimizing routes, would also make a big difference. With CarPlay in nearly 98% of new U.S. cars, Apple has a golden chance to shine in the EV world. It just needs to move quickly to meet the rising demand for electric vehicles.

  • 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.