Westminster Speed and Sound has offered Apple’s CarPlay software since it first came out in 2014. We were one of the first retailers in the Mid-Atlantic to have a live demonstration of it in our store. What is Apple CarPlay and why do you want it? Great question. Follow along as we explore this incredible technology.
What Exactly is Apple CarPlay?
In simple terms, CarPlay is a software designed by Apple and embedded into an iPhone 5 or newer. It is also a software that gets embedded into several aftermarket radios available in our store from companies like Pioneer, JVC and Sony. Certain vehicle manufacturers are also adding CarPlay to their new vehicles as well. This article focuses on adding CarPlay to the vehicle you are currently driving or are considering buying.
When you go out to your vehicle and connect your iPhone to one of our CarPlay stereos, the stereo will instantly recognize the phone and launch the dedicated CarPlay software.
Take a look at how Apple CarPlay works with Pioneer NEX Radios:
How Do I Use CarPlay to Text While Driving?
Let’s assume you have started your vehicle, connected your iPhone and are now driving up the road. If you want to send a text message, you simply tap the messaging icon on the CarPlay screen in your dash. Siri will fire up and ask you whom you want to text. You tell Siri what you want to say, “she” confirms it back to you and then sends the message. A little while later, when the person texts you back, you get a notification bar across the top of your CarPlay screen. All you do it tap it and Siri will tell you who texted you, read the message to you and ask you if you want to respond. How cool is that?
Make Phone Calls Via Voice Control
When you want to make a call, you simply touch the phone button on the CarPlay screen. Siri will ask you whom you want to call, pulls the name and number from your contact list, and then dial the number for you. If someone calls you while you’re driving and you don’t take the call, that person might leave you a voicemail. CarPlay will give you a notification bar that you can tap, allowing you to hear the message and call them back if needed. It is much safer to use than other methods currently available.
Find Businesses, Places and Get Turn-by-Turn Directions
Let’s say you are driving along the road and decide you want a cup of coffee. You just tap the Maps icon on the CarPlay screen and tell Siri, “Find me the closest Starbucks.” It will do just that and offer to give you turn-by-turn directions to it. You can also find ATMs, restaurants, gas stations and the like. You can also speak an address and have Apple Maps navigate you to that location.
Music Options Galore
When it comes to listening to your music, CarPlay gives you options galore. You can easily listen to the music stored on your phone, as well as Pandora, Spotify, iHeartRadio and TuneIn Radio. Even better, more options get added as time goes on, opening up new listening opportunities for you. A combination of voice controls and a simple touchscreen app on the CarPlay unit manages your music. The touchscreen buttons are large, with simple icons, so you can focus on driving while picking your music.
Set and See Reminders While on the Go
While you are driving , CarPlay will give you notifications of upcoming reminders and allow you to set new ones as well. Now you have no reason to forget picking up the milk on the way home or to call your friend Jamie.
Stop in and See Us for a Live Demonstration
The best way to experience CarPlay for yourself is a live demonstration. Fortunately, Westminster Speed & Sound in Westminster, Maryland, has several CarPlay models on display and in vehicles for you to see and operate for yourself. Be forewarned, once you experience it, you are going to want it
While you are here, let us show you why we are the most-awarded mobile electronics retailer in the Mid-Atlantic region. You can also contact us by clicking HERE.
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