Volvo has added Apple Car Play to its first vehicle in the US, the new Volvo XC90, and you can see the software in action in the video below.
The video below shows how Apple Car Play works in the Volvo XC90. All of the controls for apps on your iPhone are now controlled via a large touchscreen built into the vehicle.
Enhanced User Experience
With the Volvo system, Car Play does not use up the whole display unlike other systems. This allows you to use the touchscreen functions for the vehicle along with Car Play on the same display. This dual functionality is particularly beneficial as it provides a seamless integration of your smartphone with the car’s native system. For instance, you can easily switch between navigating with Apple Maps and adjusting the car’s climate control without having to exit one system to access the other. This makes for a more intuitive and user-friendly experience.
Moreover, the integration of Apple Car Play in the Volvo XC90 enhances safety by minimizing distractions. Drivers can use Siri voice commands to make calls, send texts, and access music, allowing them to keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. This feature is especially useful for long drives where constant interaction with the phone might be necessary.
Future Prospects and Compatibility
At the moment, it is just Apple’s in-car system that is available in Volvo cars in the US. However, the company has announced plans to bring Google’s Android Auto to its vehicles in 2016. This move will make Volvo’s infotainment system more versatile, catering to a broader range of smartphone users. Android Auto will offer similar functionalities, such as voice commands, navigation, and app integration, thereby providing an equally robust alternative to Apple Car Play.
The inclusion of both Apple Car Play and Android Auto in Volvo vehicles signifies the company’s commitment to offering cutting-edge technology to its customers. This dual compatibility ensures that regardless of whether you are an iPhone or Android user, you can enjoy a connected and convenient driving experience.
Additionally, Volvo’s approach to integrating these systems without compromising the car’s native functionalities sets a new standard in the automotive industry. Other car manufacturers may follow suit, leading to a more unified and user-friendly in-car technology landscape.
The addition of Apple Car Play to the Volvo XC90 marks a significant step forward in automotive technology. It not only enhances the driving experience by offering seamless smartphone integration but also sets the stage for future advancements with the upcoming inclusion of Android Auto. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more innovative features that will make our driving experiences safer, more convenient, and more enjoyable.
Source Cnet, Mac Rumors
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