Other than Bluetooth hands-free calling, no other technology has advanced our ability to be productive while driving more than Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Driven Sound and Security in Marquette offers a variety of smartphone integration upgrade solutions for cars, trucks and SUVs. Let’s look at how CarPlay and Android Auto work, and at some of the options available to upgrade your vehicle.
What Are Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
CarPlay and Android Auto are software applications that run on your car radio. They serve as an interface between you and your phone. These systems use the voice recognition features of iOS or Android to make it easy to use popular functions like text messaging, making phone calls, playing music or getting navigation instructions.
If you want to send a text message, activate the voice recognition feature and say, “Send John Carothers a text message.” Your phone will search your contacts for John’s cell phone number, then ask you what you want to say. You can dictate your message without having to take your eyes off the road, and you can keep both hands on the steering wheel.
You can use Google Maps or Waze with either platform for navigation. Apple Maps is also available on iOS devices. Again, you can request a destination using voice commands. All three solutions use an internet search to find addresses, so you can simply say “find me a gas station” or “plot a route to the Marriot Airport Hotel in Cleveland.” The system takes care of looking up the address for you. The navigation routes take into account real-time traffic flow information in major urban areas. Finally, and most importantly, the maps are always up to date.
In terms of entertainment options, you can ask the system to play music stored on your phone by artist or by song title. You can also use streaming services like Pandora, iHeartRadio or Spotify using voice commands. Several podcast and audiobook applications are also compatible.
One of the more recent updates to both solutions allows you to access your calendar application so you can see appointments you have scheduled.
Smartphone Integration Upgrade Options
The easiest way to add Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to your vehicle is to have us install a new double-DIN multimedia receiver. Not only do you get excellent smartphone integration, but we can add a backup camera or SiriusXM satellite radio. You’ll also be able to play your digital audio collection from a USB memory stick. In many cases, a new radio will dramatically improve the sound quality of your stereo system, and it’s easy for us to upgrade your vehicle with a subwoofer.
We also offer vehicle-specific upgrades that use the factory touchscreen in your vehicle. Solutions are available for many Chevrolet, Cadillac, GMC, Lexus, Porsche and Volkswagen models. Drop by our store to see if this is an option for your vehicle.
Visit the Automotive Technology Experts at DrivenSS
If you’re interested in upgrading the technology in your car, truck or SUV, drop into DrivenSS in Marquette and speak with one of our Product Specialists. We will work to find the perfect Apple CarPlay and Android Auto solution for your application, and our expert technicians will make sure it’s integrated into your vehicle perfectly. For more information or to schedule a consultation, give us a call or send us an e-mail using our contact form.
