Apple CarPlay Is Coming Soon To A Dashboard Near You
As expected, Apple has taken the lid off its iOS in-car integration feature, formally announcing the new software in a press release and launching a dedicated Web page. Called “CarPlay,” the software promises users “a smarter, safer way to use your iPhone in the car,” and it’s set to launch later this year with six initial partner manufacturers.
The car manufacturers initially supporting CarPlay are Ferrari, Honda, Hyundai, Jaguar, Mercedes-Benz, and Volvo; 12 more, ranging from BMW to Ford, Kia, Land Rover, and Toyota, have signed on to be future partners, too. But what does CarPlay offer users? In a press release, Apple explains:
CarPlay gives iPhone users an incredibly intuitive way to make calls, use Maps, listen to music and access messages with just a word or a touch. Users can easily control CarPlay from the car’s native interface or just push-and-hold the voice control button on the steering wheel to activate Siri® without distraction.
Compatible with Lightning-equipped iPhone models (the iPhone 5, iPhone 5s, and iPhone 5c), CarPlay allows users to control the iOS-based car dash software using either their in-car display’s touchscreen, or the knobs and buttons included with their vehicle. Siri, of course, makes it possible for users to control the software with their voice, too, resulting in a safer driving experience.
Greg Joswiak, Apple vice president of iPhone and iOS Product Marketing, said: “CarPlay has been designed from the ground up to provide drivers with an incredible experience using their iPhone in the car.”
He added: “iPhone users always want their content at their fingertips and CarPlay lets drivers use their iPhone in the car with minimized distraction. We have an amazing lineup of auto partners rolling out CarPlay, and we’re thrilled it will make its debut this week in Geneva.”
Apple has indeed confirmed that it will be demoing CarPlay at the Geneva International Motor Show this week.
In its press release and online, the Cupertino, Calif. company notes that CarPlay will be launching with a future iOS 7 update, and recent reports have indicated that the update – iOS 7.1 – should be available later this month.
We’ll keep you posted with further information as we receive it.
In the meantime, you can check out Apple’s new CarPlay Web page by clicking this link.
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