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Sony receiver lowers the costs of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
It's not easy to add smartphone-based infotainment to your existing car, especially if you prefer Android Auto. Many aftermarket head units are either devoted solely to Apple CarPlay (like Pioneer's AppRadio 4) or mind-numbingly expensive (such as the $1,400 AVIC-8200NEX). Sony is aiming to fix that. It just unveiled the XAV-AX100, a receiver that offers both Android Auto and CarPlay for a reasonable $500 -- even the relatively frugal AppRadio 4 costs $600.
All 2017 Ford vehicles are getting CarPlay and Android Auto
Ford has confirmed that all of its 2017 models -- every single car, SUV, light truck and EV -- are smartphone-ready. They all come loaded with Ford's Sync 3 entertainment system and are compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Those who've snapped any of the currently available 2017 models, such as the latest Escape, Fusion, Mustang and Explorer, can already enjoy the in-car technologies. They can use their iPhones (5 or newer) or their Android Lollipop (or higher) devices to access maps, music, messages and even third-party apps on their vehicles' screens. Both systems give them access to voice commands, as well.
Kia brings Android Auto and Apple CarPlay to older cars
For many, the biggest problem with Android Auto or Apple CarPlay is getting it in the first place. Unless you buy a very recent car, you're likely stuck buying an aftermarket head unit to drag your vehicle into the smartphone era. Kia thinks it can do better, though. It's promising free updates to both Android Auto and CarPlay for a slew of vehicles that have either the UVO3 infotainment system or a compatible navigation system.
Siri reveals Apple's WWDC event will begin June 13th
When it comes to announcing plans for an event, the folks in Cupertino typically send out invites and info via email. That's not the case this year, though, as Apple is relying on its virtual assistant to inform the masses about its annual WWDC soirée. Thanks to Siri, we know the developer conference is scheduled for June 13th through the 17th in San Francisco, the event where we'll hear details on new versions of OS X, iOS and WatchOS.
Honda's concept nav system consists of an Android phone and free app
Plugging your phone into your car has become second nature for most drivers. After all, at this point your handset probably has more functionality than your vehicle. Plus, while your car's infotainment system might see an upgrade every three to five years, smartphones are constantly being updated with new features and better apps. Unfortunately, tapping at tiny onscreen buttons while flying down the road at 60 miles per hour isn't exactly safe.
Volvo is the latest to add phone-free Spotify to its rides
Volvo has been involved with a fair bit of high-tech stuff as of late, but the latest announcement from the company is a little less fantastical than garbage-collecting robots. The Swedish car manufacturer is partnering with Stockholm-based Spotify for a native streaming app in its XC90 SUV, S90 sedan (above) and V90 wagon this spring, no mobile device required. Accessing the streaming service in your new ride will require a Spotify Premium account, much like using it on a PlayStation 4 or other device would.
Here's the list of vehicles that support Apple CarPlay
As CarPlay arrives on 2016 vehicles, Apple finally has a list of models that support Cupertino's automotive software. Before now, there was only a general list of auto makers and we were left with those companies' announcements for the specifics. However, there are some omissions, as Fiat Chrysler vehicles are absent from the group that's said to include manufacturers planning to introduce CarPlay in addition to models that already support the software.
VW claims Apple wouldn't let it show wireless CarPlay at CES
Apple may have baked wireless CarPlay into an iOS update months ago, but that doesn't mean it's ready to show off the feature... at least, not according to Volkswagen. The car giant claims that Apple wouldn't let it demonstrate the phone-to-infotainment-system option at CES this week. There's no mention of why it was verboten, but Car and Driver speculates that Apple wanted any first public demonstration (it hasn't been shown in action until now) on its own terms. We've reached out to Apple for its take on the situation, and we'll let you know if it has a comment.
Fiat Chrysler adding Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) is introducing the next generation of its Connect in-car entertainment (ICE) software at CES this year, and it includes support for both Apple's CarPlay and Google's Android Auto. The move follows Ford's announcement earlier today that it too would support both platforms with its Sync 3 ICE platform. FCA produces Dodge, Jeep, Ram and Alfa Romeo cars in addition to those from its namesake brands.
Fords with Sync 3 are getting Android Auto and CarPlay
Owners of Ford vehicles with Sync 3 will soon be able to enjoy Android Auto or Apple's Car Play in their cars. The automaker announced that its connected car system will start playing nicer with your mobile-platform of choice.
Hyundai Sonata will finally get CarPlay in early 2016
Hyundai began teasing Apple's CarPlay software for its vehicles way back in 2014, but failed to deliver it as promised in the 2015 Sonata. Now, the automaker will finally make Cupertino's in-car system available during the first quarter of 2016. What's more, it won't be a free upgrade. Hyundai says that Sonata owners will need to purchase an SD card in order to employ CarPlay inside their vehicles. Originally, the company said the software would be available for free in 2015 and 2015 Sonata models outfitted the requisite infotainment setup. What's more, Hyundai already offers Android Auto to its customers free of charge. When CarPlay arrives for Sonata owners, the Hyundai will join the likes of Chevrolet and Honda that already offer the software inside vehicles.[Image credit: AP Photo/Eric Risberg]
Apple CarPlay review: A useful companion, even in its early stages
It's been two years since Apple announced its plot to put your iPhone's core features inside the dash of your car, but only now is its CarPlay software becoming available in lots of new models. In brief, CarPlay allows you to connect your trusty iOS device to a vehicle's infotainment system to make things like texts, maps and music accessible from the console. Sure, the goal is to provide an easier way to use your phone on the road, but it also nixes the distraction of swiping through screens on the phone itself. To put CarPlay through its paces, I hit the highway for a 7.5-hour road trip in a 2016 Camaro SS, a model that'll arrive soon at your local dealer. From Philadelphia to Raleigh, North Carolina, I used it to navigate, find food and stream in-car entertainment along the way. This first version of Apple's software for the car is certainly useful, but as I found, there's room for improvement.
Pandora gives its iOS app the CarPlay treatment
As the number of CarPlay-compatible vehicles continues to grow, it's about time a few extra iOS apps made the jump to the dashboard. The latest to join Apple's in-car operating system is Pandora, which -- despite only mentioning some bug fixes in its release notes -- has quietly added support in its latest app update. The addition was spotted by 9to5Mac and, as you might expect, allows drivers to access their preferred music stations without touching their iPhone. Once you're happily streaming some tunes, you can also head back to the Now Playing screen and use the action menu to give individual tracks a thumbs up or thumbs down. Alongside Spotify, Rdio and iHeartRadio, there are plenty of ways now to get your music fix through CarPlay -- handy if you're itching to ditch Apple Music.
Apple acquires speech technology and virtual assistant startup VocalIQ
Cupertino is set on improving its voice technology and virtual assistant, and is reportedly doing so by acquiring a UK-based startup that specializes in just that. Financial Times reports that Apple acquired VocalIQ, a company that builds virtual assistants using machine learning tech. One can easily surmise that Tim Cook & Co. were interested in VocalIQ's smarts to further boost Siri, but Apple may also be interested in help with either of its automotive efforts. GM was reportedly working on a system with VocalIQ that would learn a driver's intentions and vocabulary over time, taking cues that are more intuitive. With Apple having both CarPlay and Project Titan on the table, the company's plans could be focused solely on the driver's seat. That being said, we'll have to wait and see how the matters progress, but hopefully we won't have to wait until 2019 to get the details. We've reached out to Apple for confirmation of the acquisition and will update this post when we hear back. [Image credit: AP Photo/Paul Sancya]
2016 Civic is the second Honda with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay
In July Honda announced the 2016 Accord as its first car to support Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, while now it's revealed the next one up is its redesigned 2016 Civic. Our friends at Autoblog have some in person impressions of the new 10th generation model, but we're mostly focused on the compact car's new features. It has a 7-inch touchscreen display in the console (on EX models and above) that's Android-based just like the Pilot, but is of course ready to let your phone take over for apps, navigation and more. Besides a markedly better interior to match a wider and lower frame, features it can have include the ability to brake itself or steer itself back onto the road when it senses danger, and it's the first Honda to have Adaptive Cruise Control with low-speed follow. This year is also the first time we'll be able to get a Civic Type-R in the US, and choices for power include a 2.0-liter 4 cylinder engine, or a 1.5-liter turbocharged version. There's no word on pricing, but the new cars will be at dealerships this fall.
The future of Apple starts with 'Hey Siri'
"Hey Siri." It was a cutesy tag line for the Apple event invitation. The company even pre-loaded its digital assistant with canned answers to questions about what the company was going to unveil. But by the end of the never-ending shindig it became abundantly clear that Siri has become an important part of the entire Apple ecosystem. It's the UI that begs not to be touched and Apple is going all in with Apple TV, iOS 9, HomeKit and iPhone 6s. But will users stop tapping and start talking?
Most 2016 Volkswagen cars can avoid crashes and talk to your phone
You normally have to spring for higher-end cars to get semi-autonomous features that could save your hide, but Volkswagen is aiming to make them relatively commonplace. The automaker has started shipping its 2016 model line, and most of it will at least make crash avoidance features an option, if not include it as a matter of course. The majority of Golf, Jetta and Touareg models will have the choice of smart cruise control and emergency braking technology that could keep you out of an accident even if you can't react in time; they're standard on Executive trim levels for the CC and Touareg. You'll also find a lane departure system on the CC, Golf, and Touareg, and parking assistance on the Golf.
Honda announces Android Auto and CarPlay support are coming
At its new R&D Center in Mountain View, California, Honda announced that it is adding Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to its upcoming vehicles. The first model that will support both car entertainment systems will be the 2016 Honda Accord, which the automaker unveiled at the event. In addition to making its future generation of vehicles compatible with Apple's and Google's smartphone integration systems, the auto company also announced an upcoming API for its rolling stool, the Uni-Cub. The Uni-Cub API will be launching this fall for any developers interested in building an app for a chair that rolls around the office.
Buick and GMC vehicles will support Android Auto and CarPlay
If you prefer to drive big honking Buick sedans and GMC trucks, you won't have to give up a phone-savvy infotainment system for the privilege. Both Apple's CarPlay and Google's Android Auto are coming to the Buick and GMC lineups, starting with the 2016 model year. CarPlay will arrive first, beginning with Buick's LaCrosse and Regal as well as GMC's Canyon, Sierra and Yukon. The Android option will show up some time later in the model year. Between this and similar moves from Cadillac and Chevy, you won't have to be fussy about your choice of cars or smartphones -- so long as you like GM's brands in the first place, you'll be taken care of.
CarPlay and Android Auto will be in Cadillac's 2016 models
Following in the footsteps of sibling Chevrolet, Cadillac has also revealed its plans to support both CarPlay and Android Auto. This is yet another move by the automaker's parent company, General Motors, to not miss out on the new wave of in-car features from Apple and Google. Cadillac says it's all part of a major overhaul to CUE, the 8-inch infotainment system that's been powering its vehicles for the past few years. You can expect to see CarPlay in most 2016 Cadillacs this summer (save for the SRX Crossover), while Android Auto compatibility is scheduled to arrive at a later, undisclosed date.
