The next generation of Apple CarPlay is set to take one step closer to completely eliminating the need to ever use your car’s native infotainment system again.
Due to launch later this year, the enhanced features for the smartphone mirroring service will enable drivers to view CarPlay within the car’s digital instrument cluster as well as open up a range of new functions such as adjusting the car’s climate control, driving modes and driver assist safety systems.
Apple is reportedly working with car-makers directly to better integrate CarPlay into future models.
On the climate front, CarPlay is set to be tweaked to show individual temperature zones and even provide access to heated and ventilated seat controls.
It will also be able to display a broad range of notifications in the instrument cluster and on central infotainment touch-screen, including tyre pressure monitoring.
Even when the rear-view camera is operating, or other camera live feeds are shown when parking, the views will be displayed within CarPlay’s home screen.
The level of functionality in individual cars will depend on just how much co-operation each brand affords Apple, with some legacy brands and even Chinese start-ups still preferring owners to use native software.
Porsche and Aston Martin will be the first two car-makers to offer the more sophisticated Apple CarPlay in their vehicles later this year.
The new-gen CarPlay will only function via a wireless connection in the future.
“Cars have changed a lot since CarPlay first launched [in the Ferrari FF in 2014], with larger screens, more of them and with a ton more features,” said Apple Car Experience engineer Tanya Kancheva.
“People love bringing their favourite features from iPhone into the car with CarPlay. iPhone users have the choice to use CarPlay or this next generation of CarPlay that provides content for all the driver’s screens.
“[It offers] a fully integrated interface for the most seamless, consistent and feature-rich experience possible – an experience that also fits perfectly into your specific vehicle’s configuration.
“It’s the very best of your car combined with the best features and familiar interaction patterns of your iPhone.”