Apple CarPlay shows a simplified version of your iPhone on the head unit's screen. You plug the phone in with a USB cable, and maps, calls, messages and music appear on the big screen with large buttons that are easier to use on the move. The phone charges while it's connected.
What Apple CarPlay is
CarPlay runs on the iPhone itself. The head unit acts as a screen, speakers and microphone for it, and passes your touches and steering wheel button presses back to the phone. Because everything lives on the phone, your contacts, playlists and saved places are already there, and the apps update whenever the phone's apps update.
The XTRONS head units Navway sells that offer CarPlay run it alongside their own Android system. You can switch between CarPlay and the head unit's own menus, for example to change the radio station or adjust the sound settings, and go back to CarPlay with a tap.
Connecting an iPhone with a USB cable
Wired CarPlay needs a USB port on the head unit that supports it and a cable that carries data, not just charging. Some head units have more than one port and only one of them handles CarPlay, so check which one it is.
- Use a good-quality Lightning or USB-C cable, whichever your iPhone takes. Apple's own cable or a certified one is the safest choice.
- Plug the phone into the head unit's CarPlay USB port or its extension lead.
- Unlock the iPhone and accept the prompt to allow CarPlay, including while locked if you want it to start on its own next time.
- The CarPlay home screen appears on the head unit. If it doesn't, open the CarPlay or phone link app on the head unit.
From then on, plugging in the phone is usually all it takes.
Wired or wireless
A cable connection is generally the most stable option. It doesn't depend on Wi-Fi, it charges the phone, and the screen responds quickly to touches. The drawback is having to plug in each time. If your head unit also supports wireless CarPlay, you can use either and decide trip by trip.
The apps it brings to the car screen
Only apps that Apple has approved for CarPlay appear, and they are redesigned for driving with fewer options and bigger buttons.
- Maps: Apple Maps, and other navigation apps such as Google Maps and Waze when they're installed on the phone. Maps use the phone's mobile data.
- Phone: recent calls, favourites, contacts and a keypad, with calls through the car speakers.
- Messages: messages are read aloud and you reply by voice. There's no keyboard while driving.
- Audio: Apple Music, Podcasts, Audiobooks and supported apps such as Spotify, BBC Sounds and many radio and podcast apps.
- Other approved apps, such as calendars, parking and EV charging apps.
Video apps and web browsers aren't available. You can change the order of the icons, and hide ones you don't use, on the iPhone under Settings, General, CarPlay.
Siri voice control
Siri is how CarPlay expects you to do most things while driving. Press and hold the voice button on the steering wheel (if the head unit has been set up to pass it to CarPlay) or tap the Siri icon on screen, then speak normally.
Typical requests:
- Directions to a postcode, an address or a saved place.
- Calling a contact by name.
- Reading new messages and sending a reply.
- Playing an artist, an album, a playlist or a podcast.
Siri must be switched on in the iPhone's settings for CarPlay to work at all. It listens through the head unit's microphone, so where the microphone is mounted makes a real difference to how well Siri understands you.
In the UK it's illegal to hold and use a phone while driving. CarPlay keeps the phone's main functions on the car screen and under voice control, but the driver still has to stay in proper control of the car. Set the route and the music before you set off where you can.
Common problems and fixes
CarPlay doesn't start when I plug in
Try a different cable first. Charging-only and worn cables are the most common cause. Make sure the phone is unlocked the first time, that Siri is on, and that CarPlay isn't blocked under Screen Time, Content and Privacy Restrictions. Check you're using the USB port meant for CarPlay.
It disconnects over bumps
A loose plug or a tired cable usually causes this. Replace the cable and make sure the USB extension lead behind the dashboard is firmly connected. Lint in the phone's charging socket can also stop the plug seating properly; clean it gently with a wooden toothpick.
Siri can't hear me
Check that the head unit's external microphone is plugged in and mounted near the driver, not tucked behind the dashboard. Close the windows and turn the fan down to test.
The sound comes from the phone
Unplug the phone, restart it, and plug it in again. If the head unit is also paired over Bluetooth, the phone may route sound that way instead. Removing the Bluetooth pairing and relying on the cable usually fixes it.
CarPlay looks blurry or the wrong size
Some head units let you change the CarPlay display size or resolution in their settings. Try another setting, then unplug and reconnect the phone.