The wait has been long and filled with leaked images and videos on the internet, but after months of testing, Apple has finally announced that its iOS for cars will be released this week.
The system is called the CarPlay, and according to Apple it gives users a “smarter, safer and more fun way to use an iPhone in the car.” The system links the car’s display and software with iOS 7 and Siri on the iPhone 5, 5C and 5S. It will be available for Ferrari, Mercedes-Benz and Volvo models this week.
Once the car’s system is linked with the user’s phone, they can use Siri to access contacts, make calls and listen to voicemails. Even texts can be handled with the option that Siri can read them out for the driver and the driver can use voice command to dictate a reply or even a lengthy email. CarPlay also scans the phone’s calender to locate destinations and Siri keeps the driver updated on which route is the shortest and any traffic incidents that could delay the arrival time. Apple Maps takes over the navigation and drivers can even opt for turn by turn directions.
CarPlay can also be used to listen to music, podcasts and audiobooks. All of it is controlled from the car’s display and drivers can ask also Siri to play what they would like to hear. Third-party apps such as Spotify and iHeartRadio are also supported by the system.
Major car makers such as BMW, Ford, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Jaguar, Kia, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Peugeot Citroën, Subaru, Suzuki and Toyota will also be making their upcoming models CarPlay compatible. Leaked data of the new system have been floating around the internet since January and its exciting to see it finally here. With Apple taking such a huge step into the automotive industry, Google can’t be far behind. The internet giant has been talking to Audi about a new Android-based system for their cars which may be revealed sometime this year. Fingers Crossed!