► Will take over multiple screens
► Coming soon
► Features new widgets and functionality
Apple has just revealed a huge update to its Apple CarPlay system that’ll see the tech giant’s software take over multiple screens. The latest iteration of CarPlay was revealed during the company’s annual WWDC event – short for World Wide Developer Conference. The new software was shown during a segment about iOS, the brand’s mobile operating system that also runs on the iPhone and iPad.
What’s new?
A lot. Until now Apple CarPlay has been contained within the main infotainment screen, and only data – such as navigation and music – has often spilled over to the instrument cluster. It also hasn’t controlled anything outside of smartphone-related functions such as navigation, music or podcasts. In contrast, the new software sees Apple CarPlay’s look and feel extend well beyond the touchscreen to every area of the car. It’s essentially an iOS takeover.
The next-generation of CarPlay will therefore have greater integration with the car’s existing systems, with features such as the radio and climate control now controllable within the Apple ecosystems. On top of that, you’ll now see Apple’s software tap into vehicle data to provide everything from speed, fuel level, operating temps and more. And because this is Apple, you’ll be able to change the look and feel of the display, and even add widgets.
The slow creep
For the last few years we’ve seen big tech gradually move into the automotive space and on the whole it’s been great for customers – but a double-edged sword for brands. Great on less premium cars, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay offers a strong range of features with a familiar UI and plug-and-play functionality. However, the inclusion of these systems can also be seen giving up territory – as well as chance to properly brand a key area part of the driving experience. And with touchscreens taking up more and more of car interiors, it’s even more ground ceded to a third-party
It’s an issue some brands – such as Polestar have embraced – while others have been more reluctant.
It’ll be interesting to see how the industry juggles brand experience and identity with the inherent benefits of CarPlay and Android Auto.
We’ll be updating this article with a list of car brands it’ll roll out to soon.