Porsche is allowing Apple CarPlay users to control more vehicle functions than ever before with a new update.
The brand claims to be the first manufacturer to offer an interface that will allow customers using Apple CarPlay to access climate control, ambient lighting, radio station, and audio settings without having to exit the iPhone integration software.
The update will also allow these functions to be adjusted in the car by using Siri.
The expanded functionality will be available in the updated Cayenne, due here in the third quarter of 2023, and will be rolled out to other models over time.
The company promises there are more updates to come as more functionality is added to Apple CarPlay.
Porsche will also give drivers the ability to display images of their specific model in Apple CarPlay and on the My Porsche App for smartphones.
This app also allows you to adjust the air-conditioning, ambient lighting and audio settings, send destinations to the navigation system, and view battery levels.
Customers can also use Apple CarPlay to combine functions into wellness modes.
The My Porsche App also links existing accounts with third-party providers, such as Apple Music, to the associated apps in the infotainment system.
Using a QR code displayed on the vehicle’s infotainment system, drivers can quickly connect their phones to their car.
“We are excited to further improve the My Porsche App and using the capabilities of Apple CarPlay to deliver a truly enhanced customer experience,” says CEO of Porsche Digital and CIO Porsche AG, Mattias Ulbrich.
“Technology and digitization are crucial factors for the enduring fascination of our brand – now and in the next 75 years.”
Apple announced last year it plans to significantly overhaul CarPlay, allowing it to adjust more vehicle functions.
It said at the time it plans to introduce a tri-screen display set-up towards the end of 2023, along with more developed widgets.
Much like widgets on the iPhone, these are smaller ‘views’ of an app that can sit on a particular infotainment display, and provide glanceable information such as upcoming calendar appointments, the weather or a trip meter.
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Future Apple CarPlay
Drivers will be able to choose from a wide variety of themes, and will additionally be able to customise aspects of each one.
Apple will also offer views with a full map display. With these themes, the map can either take focus between two circular dials, or the driver can opt for a full 3D map display, with speed and other information being relegated to a secondary focus.
The tech company announced the next generation of CarPlay will be supported by models from a range of manufacturers, including JLR, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Ford, Renault, Volvo, Honda and Nissan, among others.
