Apple Set to Connect iPhone to your Car
Apple is exploring its system to almost every line. Few days back, it was reported that Apple will take on home automation through Smart Home and now, it is revealed that it is moving the iPhone system into automobiles.
The project will be called CarPlay which will include some of the iPhone's applications in cars so that drivers can control them with voice commands, touch on the steering wheel or a swipe on a display screen in the dashboard.
The CarPlay offers a safer way to access functions like getting directions, making calls and messaging on the iPhone while driving a car. But users should not expect to have all social and media apps like Facebook, YouTube and other related apps to distract themselves for safety and legal reasons.
The Pioneer Electronics is planning to work on software for five car radios designed to work with the iPhone and Alpine Electronics is working on CarPlay compatible radios for cars already running on the road.
CarPlay supports the touchscreen input but with the help of Siri's voice interface life becomes easy for getting things done while moving. Siri will be helpful from taking email dictation, reading incoming text messages out loud to scrolling through the system for song requests or different genres of music.
The software requires iPhone 5, 5s or 5c running Apple's latest software, iOS 7.1 but will not work with iPads.
The CarPlay system is useful for iPhone users who are behind the wheels all the time and will appeal less to users who generally don't prefer a car but desire walking or using public transport.
CarPlay's biggest hitch will be the cost of the system. If the system is to be used in a pre owned car, compatible radios from Pioneer Electronics is selling at a price $700 to $1400 in the US. And after including other required parts and labor, the users will tend to spend not less than $900 to $1000. This is pretty expensive just to get the least expensive CarPlay system in the vehicle.
It is also more than the price of a new iPhone, but at least cheaper than buying a new car with CarPlay built in it as promised by the Alpine Electronics.