Were you looking forward to an update to Apple CarPlay, particularly one that might include a new UI or on-phone usage, in the style of Google’s Android Auto?
If so, you may have been disappointed that an announcement of no such update was given at the 2020 Apple Worldwide Developers Conference. It wasn’t all bad news, however, as a few tweaks were unveiled to at least make for an improved product.
One feature that the minor update does include are custom wallpapers. And while that might not sound overly exciting, Apple is including three new, additional app categories: EV charging, food ordering, and parking, The last two provide obvious advantages, but its EV charging might prove to be the most useful, with more EVs being released to the market, such as Ford’s Mustang Mac-E. That particular app will likely be a vital part of the Apple Maps EV routing update, which was also announced at the WWDC.
Unfortunately, you can still not play games on it. It would be interesting if we would have some of the Apple Arcade games available in CarPlay once the car is parked (not when you’re driving, obviously). Seems like Apple doesn’t think that playing solitaire or any other table game makes sense once you’re within the car and CarPlay is activated.
Still Lagging Behind Android Rival
Apple CarPlay was originally introduced at the same event in 2013, when it was known as “iOS in the Car”. At the Geneva Motor Show the following year, it was rebranded as CarPlay. You could make an argument that it’s a vast improvement since its first release. But then, equally, an argument could be made that it’s fallen way behind Google and its innovations, since the latter introduced Android Auto, its very own in-car interface. We’ll have to see whether CarPlay can make further strides and catch up to its rival.
Also, at the event, Apple announced a brand new system that allows users to share their digital car keys with family and friends via the iMessage system. They can basically give someone access to their car through text message. The system will initially launch next year with an updated version of the BMW 5 series. BMW, however, says that the models will be compatible with the feature if made after July 1 this year.
Compatible with Latest iOS
BMW owners can also start their car by placing an iPhone in a smartphone tray, and clicking on “Start” in their BMW. The German brand said that the phone can still work as a key for maximum of five hours should a low battery force it to power down. The system will be compatible with phones that include the latest iOS 13 and iOS 14 operating systems, so that owners can use it when their BMWs arrive. Apple has announced that more cars comparable with the system will be available in 2021. We’ll have to wait and see which upcoming models will be added.
Regarding the EV Routing app, Apple Maps now include data on electric voice charging stations, and is working with Ford and BMW to display stations compatible with the user’s car. The app recommends specific EV routes that take charging stations into account. It looks at elevation, weather, and the vehicle’s charge state when the users plan out their route. BMW has revealed that its first compatible car is the electric 14.
