We touched on Apple CarPlay technology with a blog post earlier this year. We wanted to give an update on this new technology and let you know when you will be able to see it in new Nissan Models. In this blog, we’ll also highlight NissanConnect℠, Nissan’s proprietary technology that functions very similarly to Apple CarPlay.
If you haven’t heard, Apple CarPlay is being called the best iPhone experience on four wheels. And since the four wheels we’re talking about here are those belonging to the new generation of Nissan vehicles, there’s a lot to be excited about. CarPlay is Apple’s way of integrating the iPhone into a vehicle’s infotainment system. Nissan has agreed that this new IOS-based system is a great addition to the great new Nissan vehicles being rolled out, and plans to include it in certain select models beginning next year.
CarPlay will offer iPhone users a smarter and safer way to use their devices in the car. By plugging in to the in-dash CarPlay system using the Lightning cable, users get access to their device and certain apps directly through the vehicle’s screen. By integrating directly with your Nissan’s in-dash system, you can also take advantage of the steering wheel controls to adjust volume and toggle functions – an important safety consideration when driving.
How Does Apple CarPlay Work?
Any iPhone device that uses a Lightning cable, namely iPhone 5 and newer devices, will be compatible with the CarPlay system. To pair your device with CarPlay, it needs to be plugged directly into the dash using a Lightning cable. Once connected, all of your Nissan vehicle’s accessibility features will be used to access and control the CarPlay system. The steps for connecting your device are as follows:
- Plug in your iPhone device to the car’s dashboard interface using a Lightning cable.
- When the car detects the iPhone connection it will bring up the CarPlay icon and begin updating the compatible apps.
- Once connected, the iPhone’s screen will be locked, and control will be available only through the in-dash screen and steering wheel controls.
Safety Benefits of CarPlay
Since safety is a primary concern when using devices while driving, it makes sense that once your iPhone is connected to your car, the phone’s screen will be locked. Apple says this is to reduce any temptation to use your phone while driving, but that seems unnecessary. Once the iPhone is connected, using voice commands and Siri is far better than picking up your phone anyway.
It’s also important to note that not all apps will work with CarPlay. For example, game apps that might be distracting to a driver are not compatible. Neither are review sites like Yelp, which are heavy in text that must be read. Instead, any CarPlay app that is included in the platform must support Siri for hands-free operation.
BUT WAIT — NissanConnect℠ Can Get The Job Done
You won’t be missing out on the option to purchase a vehicle with a dash mounted navigation, security and entertainment system, because Nissan offers NissanConnect℠ on many new models. This system works very similarly to Apple CarPlay, giving full access to many apps, music and your phone functions, all through the touchscreen display. NissanConnect℠ also utilizes voice recognition so you can use simple voice commands to stay connected and entertained! Nissan offers three NissanConnect℠ packages, ranging from just mobile apps to navigation, mobile apps and other services. Learn more here.
If you’re interested in learning more about CarPlay or NissanConnect℠, and which new Nissan models will have it, drop us a line here at Nissan of Athens and let us know. We’ll make sure to call you with any updates once we’ve heard something definitive. Until then, we’ll keep watching and waiting for this exciting new feature.
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