Everything you need to know about Apple CarPlay

Fast fix

Apple CarPlay® lets you safely access iPhone® apps like Maps, Messages, and Music right from your car’s dashboard. To connect:

1. Turn your vehicle on and plug your iPhone into the USB port using a Lightning cable.
2. If your car supports wireless CarPlay, enable Bluetooth and Wi-Fi on your iPhone, then press and hold the voice command button on your steering wheel to start pairing.
3. Your CarPlay screen will appear automatically, giving you hands-free access to calls, texts, navigation, and music.

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Your iPhone is packed with apps that make driving easier and more fun—but using them safely on the road can be a challenge. That’s where Apple CarPlay comes in. This feature projects your iPhone onto your car’s infotainment screen, so you can make calls, send texts, get directions, and stream music without touching your phone.

At Asurion, our experts help you get more from your devices—whether it’s extending your iPhone’s battery life or keeping your apps running smoothly. Here’s our guide to Apple CarPlay: how it works, which cars and apps support it, and what you need to know before hitting the road.

What is Apple CarPlay?

CarPlay transforms your car’s infotainment display into a driver-friendly version of your iPhone. The interface is simplified with large icons and streamlined menus so you can:

• Make phone calls and listen to voicemail.
• Dictate and hear text messages.
• Use turn-by-turn navigation with Apple Maps or third-party apps.
• Play music, audiobooks, and podcasts.
• Access your calendar and join calls on the go.

How does Apple CarPlay work?

CarPlay integrates with your iPhone through Siri® voice commands or your car’s touchscreen. Just say, “Hey Siri,” or press the voice control button on your steering wheel to:

• Ask for directions.
• Play music or podcasts.
• Read and reply to texts.
• Control smart home accessories like a garage door opener through HomeKit®.

The goal is to keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road.

Benefits of Apple CarPlay

• Safer driving: Hands-free access to calls, texts, and apps.
• Convenience: Syncs automatically with your iPhone.
• Familiar interface: Looks and feels just like iOS.
• Customizable apps: Choose which apps show up on your CarPlay screen.

Drawbacks of Apple CarPlay

The biggest concern is distraction. Even though CarPlay reduces the need to handle your phone, interacting with the screen still takes your eyes off the road. The safest way to use it is through Siri voice commands.

How much does Apple CarPlay cost?

There’s no subscription or extra fee. CarPlay is free to use, but it does rely on your iPhone’s cellular data.

Which iPhones are compatible with CarPlay?

CarPlay works with iPhone 5 and later. If you have iOS 7.1 or newer, you’re good to go.

What cars are compatible with CarPlay?

CarPlay is available in over 800 car models from more than 70 brands, including Ford®, Toyota®, Honda®, BMW®, and more. Most vehicles built since 2016 support it. Check Apple’s website or your vehicle manual for details.

What apps work with CarPlay?

CarPlay supports Apple’s core apps as well as many third-party options:

• Navigation: Apple Maps, Google Maps™, Waze®.
• Audio & Music: Apple Music®, Spotify®, Audible®, Pandora®, iHeartRadio®.
• Messaging: iMessage®, WhatsApp®, Microsoft Teams®, Zoom®.
• EV & parking: ChargePoint®, PlugShare®, SpotHero®.
• Food & delivery: Domino’s®, Dunkin’®, Panera®.

You can also customize your CarPlay screen:

1. On iPhone, go to Settings > General > CarPlay.
2. Select your car, then tap Customize.
3. Add, delete, or rearrange apps as you prefer.

How to connect iPhone to Apple CarPlay

USB setup

1. Start your car.
2. Plug your iPhone into the car’s USB port with a Lightning cable.
3. CarPlay will launch automatically.

Wireless setup

1. Turn on Bluetooth and Wi-Fi on your iPhone.
2. Press and hold the Voice Command button on your steering wheel.
3. On iPhone, go to Settings > General > CarPlay, then select your car.

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FAQ

How do I connect my iPhone to CarPlay?

Plug your iPhone into your car’s USB port, or if your car supports it, connect wirelessly through Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.

Do I need to install apps for CarPlay?

No—your iPhone apps appear automatically. You can rearrange or hide them in Settings > General > CarPlay > Customize.

Does Apple CarPlay work with Android phones?

No—Android users can set up Android Auto™ instead.

Is Apple CarPlay safer than using my phone?

Yes—CarPlay is designed to reduce distractions, but using Siri voice commands is the safest option while driving.