Automotive technology has progressed rapidly in the last few years, and one of the most notable innovations is car stereo receivers that connect with mobile phones. One problem with this connection, however, is the reliance on your phone’s interface through a USB cord or Bluetooth. It’s no secret that many car accidents are caused by drivers fiddling with their phones. Apple CarPlay provides a safer option for car-phone connectivity.

Apple CarPlay offers seamless, safe car stereo integration with your iPhone

Apple CarPlay technology accesses your iPhone’s calling, music, mapping, and message applications and displays them on a large, vivid screen featuring your phone’s familiar iOS. The apps are easy to utilize while keeping your focus on the road, and most functions can be initiated by a voice-activated Siri, so you don’t even have to take your hands off the wheel. All you need to take advantage of this next step in stereo-phone integration is an iPhone, a Lightning connector cord, and a compatible receiver, which comes stock in many 2016 and newer vehicles. Several aftermarket receivers are available for older cars.

Make hands-free phone calls like a boss

You might not have a corner office and personal secretary in real life, but you’ll feel like an executive whenever you make calls with Apple CarPlay’s phone functions. With your loyal virtual assistant Siri’s help, you can make calls, return missed calls, and check your voicemail—all hands-free. And since caller information is displayed on the receiver screen, you’ll never miss a call because your phone was buried in your purse or stuck in your pocket.

Listen and dictate text messages while driving in San Diego

Texting and driving is more than a bad idea—it’s illegal in many states and too often deadly. But with Apple CarPlay, you don’t have to wait until you reach your destination to check your phone when it chimes with an important text. Siri can read and dictate your text messages for you, allowing you to keep your eyes on the road where they belong.

Rock out to your iPhone music library with a familiar interface

Apple CarPlay can access your entire iPhone music library and play songs with a simple command to Siri, but when you’re not sure what you want to hear, the system offers a familiar screen interface to safely scroll through. The compatible stereo receiver screen will look much like your iPhone screen, although with fewer, larger apps for ease of use. And if you want more selection than what’s available on iTunes, Apple CarPlay can also stream music from Apple Music, Spotify and iTunes radio, plus podcasts and audiobooks.

Never get lost again with GPS navigation through Apple CarPlay

Most newer cars include some sort of navigation technology, but why adjust to an unfamiliar mapping system when you can use the Apple Maps you know and love from your phone? Apple CarPlay’s navigation function offers turn-by-turn directions, traffic conditions, estimated travel time, and nearby points of interest if you’re traveling somewhere new. Plus, Apple Maps can pull addresses from your contact list, so all you have to say is, “Take me to grandma’s house,” and the map will show you the way.

The best Apple CarPlay receiver options plus the best installation at Audiosport Escondido

If you’re ready to take advantage of all the benefits of Apple CarPlay but your vehicle doesn’t have a compatible car stereo receiver, Audiosport can help. We carry the best car audio brands and our trained experts can help you select the right equipment for your needs and budget. We also offer professional installation to ensure the job is done right, so stop in our Escondido location today or call (760) 743-2333.