Apple Carplay is a software interface from Apple that allows an iPhone to be connected to a car’s infotainment system. This allows drivers to use certain iPhone functions on the vehicle display, such as making calls, sending messages, listening to music or navigation, voice control via Siri, third-party apps and a user interface that is optimized for driving.
It’s important to note that the exact features of Apple Carplay may depend on the vehicle make, model, and year. Not all cars support all Carplay functions. Using Apple Carplay wirelessly requires additional technical requirements. Wireless Carplay is usually available starting with the iPhone 5. The vehicle itself must not only support Carplay, but also wireless integration. Not all vehicles that offer Carplay automatically have the wireless option. In some cases, a software update may be required for the vehicle’s infotainment system.
If the vehicle does not support CarPlay Wireless, you will have to upgrade the car radio. However, it is much easier and cheaper to use a wireless adapter for CarPlay. TechStage shows which models are available here.
These articles show further accessories for the car:
Use Apple Carplay wirelessly using an adapter
Suitable devices for connecting the car wirelessly to Apple’s Carplay work similarly to the corresponding adapters for Android (list of the best): The device connects to the car via cable and communicates with the iPhone via Bluetooth. It therefore takes up a placeholder between the smartphone and the vehicle in order to establish a connection via the Apple Carplay standard without having to plug in the iPhone every time.
The most popular models include the Carlinkit 5.0 Wireless Carplay Adapter ab 75 Euro. The model also supports the Apple standard and works reliably. You plug the adapter into the car and then connect it to the iPhone via Bluetooth. Carplay is then also available wirelessly. Another option is the predecessor Carlinkit 4.0 Wireless Carplay Adapter for 77 Euro (Select coupon for 20 percent discount).
Also the Ottocast Carplay Wireless Adapter U2 Air exists in one Version for Apple Carplay ab 80 Euro (Use coupon with a discount of 20 euros). Furthermore offers TNVTEC a version for Apple Carplay 55 Euro at. Other adapters of this type can be found on Amazon starting at 40 euros.
Smart displays as an alternative
Adapters are a convenient solution. However, these require that the vehicle also offers the appropriate interface for Android Auto or Apple Carplay. If the older vehicle does not offer this, retrofitting the car radio is an option. But it’s more expensive directly from the manufacturer. We explain more about this in the guide to retrofitting Android Auto, Apple Carplay & DAB+: displays, moniceivers & receivers.
We have already tested the following models and had good experiences with them:
Moniceiver
Conclusion
An adapter for Apple Carplay Wireless saves the driver from having to plug the iPhone into the car every day if the infotainment system does not support the wireless connection. With prices ranging from 40 euros to 100 euros, these adapters are not really expensive and are significantly cheaper than replacing the car radio.