Apple CarPlay becomes the solution designed by Apple to reflect some of the main functions and key features of both our iPhone and the iOS operating system itself on the touch screen of our car.
Since it is not safe to use a mobile phone while driving (and it is also prohibited), Apple designed CarPlay with the intention of providing its users and drivers with a combination of convenience and safety.
That is to say, it offers us the possibility of keeping our iPhone so as not to be tempted to use it while we are inside the car while driving, but it still allows us to access and safely use some of the basic apps of the device.
For example, we can use key applications such as Telephone, Messages, Maps and Music, and any other app compatible with this system, such as Amazon Music, Spotify or Tidal (just to cite some simple and simple examples).
In fact, we can find ourselves today with an incredible number of compatible applications, while, with each iOS update, we enjoy a modified interface and a series of new functions that make this option, at times, even more useful. and nice than the one included by the factory car manufacturer.
What do we need to start using Apple CarPlay in our car?
To begin with, it is clear that the first thing we need is an iPhone . Also, you should know that CarPlay is compatible with all iPhones from an iPhone 5 ; in short, it will be compatible with any device running iOS 7.1 or later. But it is also essential that the car system supports CarPlay , otherwise it will be of little use to have an iPhone.
Also, unless our car works wirelessly with CarPlay, the use of a Lightning to USB cable is also a must.
On the other hand, it is also necessary to take into account that both the car system and our phone must establish a link protocol between devices, especially before being able to start using the different elements and functions of CarPlay.
Setting up our CarPlay
When the link is established for the first time, and we allow our iPhone to connect with CarPlay in the car, it is enough to connect our mobile phone for the application to start automatically in the car. But you need to allow CarPlay to do it.
To do this, we must connect a standard Lightning to USB cable (effectively, the same one we use to charge our iPhone every day). The process is actually very simple: you just have to connect it directly to any USB port in the car.
Of course, some vehicles offer the possibility of connecting wirelessly, doing so through Bluetooth. However, it is a functionality not compatible with all cars, so it is recommended to make sure of this compatibility before trying.
How to use Apple CarPlay
As we have already explained before, this system should start automatically when we connect our iPhone to the car through the Lightning to USB cable.
Although we can use the charging cable that the device comes with the first time we buy it, it is ideal and recommended that, if we are going to make intensive use of this functionality, it is best to get a second compatible cable to leave it always available. in the car.
In case this functionality does not start automatically, we can look for the CarPlay icon on the car screen.
Of course, the first time we do it, we may need to confirm that we want to use this function by unlocking our phone, and finally allow the iPhone to connect when it is locked.
Once the link is established, the first CarPlay screen begins with a home screen showing recently used apps , in a column on the left, as well as the map and the ability to control car audio.
When we want to view more applications, we will only have to press the view icon that we will find in the lower left part of the screen. Or, if you prefer, swipe to the left. Once we find the app that interests us, just by touching it with your finger it will open.
