Apple iPhone users have been able to connect their phones to car navigation systems for years, so one may wonder what is so different about Apple CarPlay.
For starters, instead of connecting to a third-party configuration CarPlay launches a display which mimics the features of the iOS user interface that we've become accustomed to. CarPlay condenses your phone's apps into those, which are compatible with the system and enable handsfree handling, which is the primary selling point of the CarPlay application.
Handsfree operation enhances safety and CarPlay goes as far as disabling your iPhone screen while it is connected to the system.
CarPlay can be controlled using the navigation controls, touchscreen or ideally Siri, which acts as a co-pilot which can tell you what's around you, where to go, make your calls for you, select songs and audio files to play, navigate options and apps, and send messages while you are on the go so you never have to take your eyes off the road or your hands off the wheel. Your driving remains focused while your ears and voice keep you in touch by communicating with others and keep you entertained when you select to use audio, music and podcast apps.
Apple's new release makes driving more efficient with secure multi-tasking and gives us a glimpse of the direction in which cars and mobile technology are heading.
Let's take a look at what CarPlay has to offer and how it compares to traditional navigation systems and competitors.
