Everyone is glued to their phones these days. It’s akin to a lifeline. If you’ve recently sat in a new car, you’ve probably noticed that the majority of new automobiles on the market include smartphone connectivity for both Apple and/or Android phones. Drivers may now just plug in their phones and stay connected while driving thanks to these new capabilities. As automobiles grow more tech-focused, expect to see a lot more integration of these two systems in the future, as the ongoing struggle between the two systems heats up. But, exactly, what do these two systems perform? What is the basic difference between Apple CarPlay and Android Auto? And can you obtain these systems if your car didn’t come with them or if it was constructed before they were available? We put prepared a quick reference guide.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are in-car assistance systems that allow you to access specific functions of your phone via your infotainment system or phone interface. With either system, you can use voice commands or touch buttons in your car to perform things like display turn-by-turn navigation, play music, or check your messages. Connecting your phone to the infotainment system provides drivers with convenience and safety. There are fewer distractions for the driver and temptations to look at your phone while driving is also reduced. You can access some of your favorite apps from your phone, listen to playlists, and make hands-free calls. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are excellent choices for a safe way to use your phone while driving. If you want to use the navigation or listen to music apps like Spotify, Pandora, or music stored on your phone, Android Auto or Apple CarPlay are fantastic methods to do it safely. You can even listen to audiobooks while driving. Both provide voice control, and in modern vehicles, you may activate the voice systems via buttons on the steering wheel. Furthermore, in many automobiles, the systems are standard (though other brands provide it as an option), and you can even forego purchasing the car’s navigation system, saving you money.
Some automobile manufacturers waited several years to implement Apple CarPlay (Toyota, for example, didn’t add it until 2018), and not all manufacturers support both systems. Toyota currently does not support Android Auto. If your vehicle is newer than 2014 and has a navigation-capable infotainment system, you may be able to acquire a software upgrade that incorporates Apple CarPlay and/or Android Auto, however, you may have to pay a price. If your vehicle is older than 2014, you can use Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, but you will need to purchase aftermarket accessories or install additional apps to make it function. Because you can utilize the system on your phone screen, Android Auto is easier to use in older vehicles. Apple CarPlay does not function only on the phone. To make it operate on your phone, you will need to download additional software.
