At the same time as CarPlay 2 work retains chugging alongside, Apple has been slowly including new options to the prevailing CarPlay too. Final fall CarPlay acquired some Apple Intelligence enhancements, and lately Ford EV homeowners gained NACS routing. Now, with iOS 18.4, there are three extra new CarPlay options that simply arrived.
#1: Third row of app icons
One of many sophisticated issues about CarPlay is that it must adapt to a variety of auto infotainment programs.
Thankfully, iOS 18.4 brings a good enhancement for automobiles which have particularly massive shows.
Customers all through the beta discovered that on sure display sizes, CarPlay gained a 3rd row of app icons the place it solely supported two earlier than.
This further display actual property for apps pairs properly with this subsequent CarPlay addition…
#2: Sports activities apps
Apple has made a brand new API obtainable to app builders that can deliver sports activities apps to CarPlay.
Beginning in iOS 18.4, apps that present sports activities scores can combine with CarPlay. This fashion, you may keep on prime of how your favourite group’s doing even whereas within the automobile.
It may take a while for third-party sports activities apps to formally add CarPlay assist, however right here’s hoping we get a CarPlay replace for the Apple Sports activities app earlier than lengthy.
#3: Default navigation in EU
iOS 18.4 introduced a long-awaited new possibility for EU customers: the power to set a default navigation app.
That’s proper, relatively than counting on Apple Maps, customers within the EU can set alternate options like Google Maps as their default.
This modification ought to have a big impact on the CarPlay expertise.
Why? As a result of it means you’ll be capable of inform Siri, “Take me to X” and the assistant will use your chosen navigation app to route you. Fast, seamless, and hassle-free—similar to voice computing within the automobile ought to be.
CarPlay iOS 18.4 options: wrap-up
CarPlay’s newest updates is probably not for everybody—in case your car’s show is small, and also you’re outdoors the EU, this listing shrinks in a short time—however they’re welcome nonetheless.
Whereas we proceed ready for CarPlay 2, something Apple can do to proceed bettering the prevailing CarPlay is a win in my e book. Seen in that gentle, iOS 18.4 is a strong step down the fitting path.
What are your ideas on iOS 18.4’s new CarPlay options? Tell us within the feedback.
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