In this article, you will learn how CarPlay works, features, compatible devices and related things. Let's dive in! Additionally, here we have listed some methods to add more apps on CarPlay,
Software Solutions
Hardware Solutions
How Does CarPlay Work?
How it works is the most interesting part of the CarPlay concept. It doesn’t ask you to get involved in complicated stuff but plugging your iPhone into the dedicated USB slot in the car via a high quality lightning cable.
Or if the car supports wireless CarPlay, you can connect via Bluetooth and WiFi, just Then, all the rest is ready on the car’s display system. This works fine with the car’s knobs, voice controls and responds at your dictation.
CarPlay Compatible Cars
When it comes to the topic of how does Apple CarPlay work, CarPlay compatible cars are a major requirement. because you can not use CarPlay if your vehicle is not support for CarPlay.
Keep in mind that you need a CarPlay Compatible Car to enjoy Apple CarPlay.
Most of the cars are now compatible with Apple CarPlay. But vehicle brands like Tesla and Rivian are not compatible with Apple CarPlay.
CarPlay Compatible iDevice Models
Another factor to consider is iPhone compatibility with Apple CarPlay. Now almost all the iPhones are compatible with Apple CarPlay, but iPads are not.
Here you can check the iDevice compatibility for CarPlay.
Have you still not set up CarPlay in your car? Please click how to set up CarPlay if you are not sure to make it happen.
CarPlay Features
CarPlay allows more features now than before,
are the basic functions of Apple CarPlay. But additionally, there are calendar, Homekit, third-party apps like Whatsapp, MS Teams, Google Maps, etc.
Also, wallpaper customization, split screen mode, dark mode, SharePlay and more. If you are an iOS 18 user you can get to know iOS 18 CarPlay features here.
But Apple does not allow high-engaging apps on CarPlay, like YouTube, Netflix, Prime Video etc. Because of safety concerns, they have restricted those apps on CarPlay. But there are some legal methods to add those apps on CarPlay screen and it's your responsibility to use them safely.
How CarPlay Apps Work
But not all the apps you run on iOS are able to be used on your car system. Apps like Apple maps. Music, podcasts and other main features like calls and messages are originally available there while other CarPlay compatible apps have to be downloaded to your iPhone in order to run it. Apple CarPlay is a product that is intended to minimize driver’s distractions while enjoying his iOS. Therefore it is highly unlikely that fancy games like Angry bird would appear in the CarPlay environment.
source: https://www.apple.com/ios/carplay/
https://www.apple.com/ios/carplay/available-models/
https://support.apple.com/en-us/108415
How to Install Any App on CarPlay with Software Solutions?
CarPlay allows only a limited set of apps like calls, messaging, maps, audiobooks, radios, entertainment. But CarPlay does not allow video based apps, games and which grabs the driver's attention. But you can have them on your CarPlay and use them wisely while stuck in traffic or waiting in a car park.
WheelPal
WheelPal is a CarPlay upgrading software. It allows you to add apps like YouTube, Netflix, etc on CarPlay screen. But you need to have a jailbroken iPhone in order to add those apps on CarPlay. If you don't, it shows non-jailbreak solutions as well.
For simplicity, we have added the install link of WheelPal below along with installation guides if you are interested.
Disclaimer: Jailbreaking iPhone may violate Apple's policies, because it restricts some apps due to safety concerns. Therefore, jailbreaking may cause warranty voids and security concerns, the recommended way is not to jailbreak your iPhone, if you like to jailbreak the iPhone, please do it at your own risk.
InCar
InCar is a CarPlay simulation app. You can use your iPhone as the CarPlay screen. YouTube, Netflix etc is available with InCar app.
This app is more suitable for users who don't have a CarPlay screen or users who like to watch videos in the car.
Installation guide for InCar App
InCar is compatible with all iPhone models.
How to Install Any App on CarPlay with Hardware Solutions?
Here we have listed some AI boxes that allow you to add any app on CarPlay. You don't need to jailbreak your iPhone to use these AI boxes.
Carlinkit AI Box
Carlinkit is a famous brand of CarPlay upgrades. This adapter can enable playing DRM content, including Netflix, YouTube and TikTok etc on CarPlay screen. If you are interested in watching video-based content on Apple CarPlay, this is one of the methods.
Features:
- Enables YouTube, Netflix, TikTok, etc on Apple CarPlay
- Supports cars with built-in CarPlay
- Automatic connection after the initial connection
- Works with iPhone 6s to the latest iPhone models
- Supports from iOS 10 to iOS 18 and all of the subversions
- 8+128 GB RAM+ROM
- Android 13 operating system
- Wired to wireless CarPlay
- Helps with Android Auto
Ottocast AI Box
Ottocast AI Box is another AI box that allows to add more apps on CarPlay screen. No need of jailbreaking iPhone and can play YouTube, Netflix and other video contents on CarPlay.
Features:
- Enables YouTube, Netflix, TikTok, etc on Apple CarPlay
- Supports cars with built-in CarPlay
- Automatic connection after the initial connection
- Works with iPhone 6s to the latest iPhone models
- Compatible with iPhone 16 series
- Supports from iOS 10 to iOS 18 and all of the subversions
- 8+128 GB RAM+ROM
- OTA update system (over the air)
- Android 13 operating system
- Wired to wireless CarPlay
Additionally, some features didn't exist earlier but now dominate the CarPlay world.
Let Siri Take the Course
Siri is at your back. All you need to do is just ask Siri. Imagine you wanted to play the favorite song or text to a friend while driving, just ask Siri to do it. She will also read received messages, help you find a destination or even make a call.
CarPlay, From Now to Next
CarPlay for now, takes the reputation for having more than 800 car models being compatible with it. Meantime, we could see that most of the car models have already begun to come up with supported devices. And the aftermarket solutions like Pioneer have stepped into adding that features in their latest devices.
And we also noticed in iOS 15 release, Apple has been very much into AR(Augmented Reality) and Hologram apps. Perhaps it may be a hint that Apple is to work more on CarPlay with AR integration in the recent years to come. What if an integration could tell you about a special offer available in a particular restaurant or a coffee shop as you pass the place. Amazing isn’t it?
Therefore, we can expect that CarPlay will continue to amaze us in future too with more CarPlay features. Stay with Carplay Hacks for CarPlay tips, news, Carplay issues and everything.
