Definition: CarPlay

The hands-free integration of Apple's iPhone into a vehicle's in-dash head unit, which is the centrally located entertainment and navigation screen on most cars. Although iPod music as well as Bluetooth hands-free phones were built into cars for several years, CarPlay added Siri, navigation and messages.

Introduced in 2014, and requiring at least iOS 7.1, more than a dozen auto manufacturers offered CarPlay within the year. Google introduced the counterpart in 2015 (see Android Auto).

CarPlay Ultra
Debuting in 2025, CarPlay Ultra integrates with the vehicle's instrument cluster in addition to the center screen. The Apple Car has finally arrived! See Apple Car.

Turn-by-turn directions can be viewed in front of the driver and instrument gauges can be customized. Available in the U.S. and Canada, car companies are gearing up with Aston Martin being the first. Users need at least an iPhone 12 and iOS 18.5. See head unit and in-dash navigation.

CarPlay Home Screen

CarPlay is built into the iPhone. When connected via Bluetooth or USB to a CarPlay-enabled auto, the in-dash screen shows supported functions.