UPDATED 05:02 EST / JANUARY 12 2016

NEWS

Apple publishes full list of CarPlay vehicles, iOS 9.3 sees updates for CarPlay Music and Maps

Apple’s CarPlay proved very popular at last week’s Consumer Electronics Show (CES) with big names in the auto industry, like Ford, Chrysler, and Volkswagen announcing the incorporation of CarPlay into their vehicles.

With the popularity of the technology growing, Apple has launched a dedicated CarPlay website and published a list of which automakers and vehicle models have CarPlay. The list contains 100 models from 21 automakers, all of which Apple say are either supporting the technology or will have it available this year.

The list contains new 2016 and 2017 models from a variety of automakers including Audi, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Citroën, DS Automobiles, Ferrari, Ford, GMC, Honda, Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi, Opel, Porsche, Peugeot, Seat, Škoda, Suzuki, Volkswagen and Volvo.

Apple first launched CarPlay at the Geneva International Motor Show in March 2014, together with early CarPlay adopters Ferrari, Mercedes-Benz and Volvo. CarPlay provides drivers with access to Maps, music, podcasts as well as the ability to manage calls and messages all while keeping their hands on the wheel and their eyes on the road.  CarPlay also offers access to third party apps including Spotify, Rdio, iHeartRadio, CBS Radio and MLB At Bat. To be compatible with the software drivers need an iPhone 5 or later running iOS 8 or above.

While CarPlay still requires you to plug in your iPhone, we could see a wireless CarPlay launched soon, after reports emerged that Volkswagen Group was apparently stopped from demonstrating wireless CarPlay at CES.

The iOS 9.3 update out today also includes various new features for CarPlay, including enhancements for Apple Maps and Apple Music. CarPlay now provides the ability for drivers to use the ‘Nearby’ function in Apple Maps to locate their friends while driving as well as discover best local coffee shops, restaurants, and more. You will also be able to see distance when comparing locations, star ratings and price levels.

The CarPlay Music app now includes features from the Apple Music streaming service. With iOS 9.3 you will be able to access For You and New sections of Apple Music, allowing you access to your playlists and albums. Just like on your iPhone, the CarPlay music app will highlight your recently added playlists and saved music. Adding music and playlists will still require Siri, which is understandable considering you will be using it while driving.

Image credit: iphonedigital; Flickr

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