Next-generation Apple CarPlay offers more controls and customization

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The 2024 WWDC focused on a number of things: Apple Intelligence, a new OS for its devices, improved Siri, and more. But buried under the hype of Apple’s bigger announcements was the introduction of new and pretty exciting Apple CarPlay features

With the integration of AI, Apple CarPlay now has access to your vehicle’s information and can seamlessly integrate itself to make operating it even easier. From comfort controls to maintenance, here’s what the next-generation Apple CarPlay is set to offer:

New Apple CarPlay Features

Multi-Display Support

A notable update to the system is multi-display support. CarPlay will now be able to appear on all the displays of a vehicle and not just on the center dash.

Essentials for modern vehicles that utilize more than one display within the cabin, CarPlay will offer the same amount of controls on every screen.

The UI is supposedly responsive enough as well that it will be able to resize itself to smaller-sized displays.

Instrument Cluster Integration

Probably the most interesting addition, the next-generation CarPlay will be able to directly integrate into the vehicle’s instrument cluster to display relevant information. Access to these details will depend on the manufacturer, however, but CarPlay can now access essential vehicle metrics like speedometer, tachometer, odometer, fuel gauge, engine temperature gauge, and even oil pressure gauge.

Additionally, CarPlay can now notify you of certain conditions such as slow tire pressure.

You can also customize the look of these gauges on your screen. Apple will provide several customization options from colors, layouts, and even brand-specific themes.

Climate Controls

If the vehicle allows, Apple CarPlay can now control your car’s air conditioning. It will not just be able to control the fan speed but also display the different temperature readings within the cabin.

Apart from climate controls, CarPlay can also access window and seat controls.

Widgets

The next-generation Apple CarPlay now has customizable widgets that you can place across the dashboard. Depending on what the manufacturer will allow, widgets available include maps, calendars, clocks, weather, charging, tire pressure, seatbelt alerts, ADAS alerts, and music controls.

Much like the instrument cluster, you can also customize the placement and visibility of these widgets to your liking. Widgets are seemingly planned, however, to only be available on passenger displays.

Media app

Apple introduced an all-new Media app that can not just control music from your phone but now also offers access to your vehicle’s FM/AM radio.

You will no longer need to switch out of the CarPlay interface should you want to listen to the radio.

Additionally, the Media app also provides more ways to search for music such as genre selection, and also aims to provide a more unified interface for media and entertainment controls.

When are we getting the next generation of Apple Carplay?

Apple has confirmed on its website that the next-generation Apple Carplay will arrive in 2024 though a more specific timeline has yet to be announced.

Given that Apple will have to work with automakers and their respective vehicle designs, we wouldn’t be surprised if this releases late within the year. Interstingly, Aston Martin and Porsche are the first to preview their upcoming vehicles with the new generation Apple CarPlay.

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