If you’ve bought—or are considering buying—a modern car (model year 2019 or newer), you’ve likely come across terms such as Smartphone Integration, Apple CarPlay, or Android Auto in the specifications list.
Let’s dive into what these features actually mean for you, and why they’re worth considering when shopping for your next vehicle.
What Is Android Auto and Apple CarPlay?
Android Auto and Apple CarPlay mirror your smartphone onto your vehicle’s infotainment system. Apple CarPlay is designed exclusively for iPhone users, while Android Auto caters to Android devices.
With a simple plug-in connection—or wireless pairing in some vehicles—you can access many of your phone’s apps directly on the car’s display, without installing anything extra. This creates a familiar interface, offers significantly better voice-command accuracy, and reduces the learning curve when switching between different cars.
In an era where most in-car functions are controlled via touchscreens, hands-free access to navigation, messages, and apps through Siri or Google Assistant is a major advantage.
Advantages of Smartphone Integration
1. Access to Your Preferred Navigation Apps
One of the biggest benefits is the ability to use navigation apps like Google Maps or Apple Maps on your car’s infotainment screen. There’s no need to pay for built-in navigation upgrades or dealership map updates. Your maps stay current, and your phone stays safely out of sight.
2. Continual UI Improvements
Another underrated advantage is ongoing updates. Even if your vehicle manufacturer stops updating your car’s software, your phone will continue to improve the user interface and functionality through regular OS upgrades. This makes infotainment quality a less significant factor when choosing a car.
3. Better EV Charging Information
For EV drivers, some vehicles only show limited charging stations via their native interface. Through smartphone integration, apps like ChargePocket or Rubicon Charge become accessible directly on your infotainment screen, giving you far more charging options.
And the list of benefits continues—but you get the idea.
What If Your Car Doesn’t Have These Features?
If your current car lacks CarPlay or Android Auto, there are many aftermarket solutions available. Just as you can upgrade your sound system, you can also install a new head unit that supports smartphone integration.
If your car only supports wired CarPlay or Android Auto, inexpensive wireless adapters are available. Keep in mind, however, that some aftermarket wireless solutions may not be as stable or seamless as a wired connection.
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Looking Toward the Future
While this may seem futuristic, companies like Apple are already rolling out the next generation of this technology. Apple CarPlay Ultra, developed in collaboration with brands like Aston Martin, aims to become the core operating interface of future vehicles—not just a supplementary feature.
In these implementations, Apple CarPlay Ultra becomes the primary UI for the entire car, with manufacturers adding dedicated screens for vehicle-specific controls such as suspension settings or steering feel. Essentially, carmakers are handing UI design to software experts while they focus on what they do best: building cars.
Final Thoughts
All-in-all, I think it’s clear that smartphone integration represents the future of in-car connectivity and usability. With its many advantages - from better navigation to improved voice control and seamless updates - Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is a must-have when buying your next car.
By Hanno Mostert, in association with CHANGECARS.
