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Apple CarPlay Update Supports Gauge Clusters, HVAC Controls And More

A new version of Apple CarPlay that was previewed by the Californian tech company at its annual developer conference this week will support multi-screen projection and will also feature a gauge cluster and HVAC controls.

This latest version of Apple CarPlay transforms the system from what is essentially a phone screen projection software into a fully integrated system that can control parts of the car and relay information such as ground speed, engine RPM and system temperature. The system will support multiple screens, regardless of size or shape, allowing it to project onto the central infotainment screen and replace the gauge cluster and the HVAC controls. Popular iPhone apps will also appear on the screen, including Maps, Audiobooks, Podcasts and more. Interestingly, the system will still run off a connected iPhone, but will still be capable of tapping into the vehicle’s various systems.

OEM partners that are allegedly “excited to bring this new vision of CarPlay to customers,” in the near future, according to Apple, include Acura, Audi, Ford, Honda, Jaguar-Land Rover, Lincoln, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Porsche, Polestar and Volvo. GM is notably absent from that list, which could be due to the fact that it’s teamed up with Google to integrate its Google Built-In automotive software in its latest vehicles, along with the Android Automotive OS. Much like CarPlay, Android Automotive supports the use of Android/Google apps on the display screen and allows the user to seamlessly switch between phone-based entertainment and navigation controls and vehicle controls.

Some automakers may be hesitant to support this more integrated version of Apple CarPlay, as it would be turning over/sharing a certain amount of customer data with Apple. Integration with third-party software like this seems inevitable, however, with virtually every major automaker partnered with either Apple, Google or both to support their own infotainment solutions.

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Sam loves to write and has a passion for auto racing, karting and performance driving of all types.

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Comments

  1. meh, I don’t see much of this being integrated even with Apple’s partners. The LCD screen is another area where manufactures can have their design language and this would cover it.

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  2. God help us!

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    1. God isn’t real so get out of here with that Jesus crap.

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      1. Andy, calm down my friend. I wasn’t saying it like I way praying. It’s more an expression. The reason the “G” is in caps is because it was the beginning of my sentence.

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  3. it is another thing beautiful but all here have microsoft or apple or even linux computers at home and knows the bugs each update how severe is, so no need of those much electronic things, if break you do not know how much gasoline is in tank and costs a lot again in car repair shop, let’s stay simple with old system and it ok.

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    1. if carplay breaks… just unplug it and the car’s default UI will take over… yay.

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      1. … yeah, make a reboot at 150 km/h … let’s see

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  4. First, this will not appear before 2024. That’s what Apple indicated yesterday.

    Second, this is pretty awesome as it will provide a high quality in-car experience, likely superior to the limited and mostly never updated system offered by OEMs.

    It’s unfortunate GM is not jumping in this bandwagon.

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    1. TCK: I’m sorry, but isn’t the purpose of getting into a car to DRIVE? Not be entertained by screens, gizmos, flashy junk and some “in-car experience”.

      What’s unfortunate is that GM is taking on the Google system like Volvo has, and it sucks big time. I find it so sad that we have so many drivers who want to play games and be entertained instead of paying attention to what going on around then on the road.

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    2. … yeah fly simulators games are nice too, but do not want my car to a gamer … so keep the old to future

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  5. ..

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  6. So now they can push their climate BS agenda and take over your climate controls! Um no thanks to that and no thanks to Crapple!

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  7. Apple thinks everyone will jump into their UI design. They haven’t come out with anything significant since Job and Ive left.

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  8. Frankly, most controls on vehicles are horrible ergonomically. The OEMs should hand that over to the players like Apple and Google.

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  9. Why? What is Car Play?

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  10. I have trouble figuring out the stupid controls now, why make it even more difficult? I just want to drive not game!

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  11. Customers today use both Apple and Google phones. As long as the customers can continue to use the phone of their choice everyone should be happy. I agree with everyone’s comments that cars are made to be driven and enjoyed not to be an extension of your computer, family/game room, or man cave. The only apps that benefit drivers are the navigation and hands-free phone and messaging apps. Bottom line, some customers will like the technology and some don’t, just like EV vs Gas. The good news, for now, is you still have the option of making your own decisions.

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    1. Dr. Piz: Well said. However, it’s going the way of not allowing users of Apple to use the Apple CarPlay in the cars with Google systems. Take our Volvo’s for example. The new Google system is so bad IMO that I will not buy another Volvo if that’s the system I would need to take. At this time, the only Volvo’s with Google built in are the C40, XC40 EV and the XC60’s. But they are saying that all 2023 models will now be using only the Google built in.

      No thanks. I have an I-phone and like it. No Apple CarPlay, not buying it. And that’s coming from someone who is not into tech very much. I’m about driving and not messing around with screens and other distractions. The Apple CarPlay allows me to use what little tech I do use with minimal fuss or distractions.

      And BTW, for those who are Android/Google users, the Android Auto is not even close to Apple CarPlay for ease of setting up and using.

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      1. Dan,
        Referencing your Volvo’s example manufacturers would be shooting themselves in the foot if they select only one partner. IOS and Android dominate the market and car manufacturers need to be able to integrate with both or they will be losing market share. I too use an iPhone and other Apple products. All vehicles I purchase going forward need to have the basic CarPlay as an option or be able to interface with my iPhone. As Old School stated above, let’s keep it simple.

        Reply

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