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.

Sam McEachern

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

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  • 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.

      • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

    • 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.

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

  • 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!

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

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

  • 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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