This way you can use Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, even in older cars.

You can use Android Auto or Apple CarPlay to navigate your car, among other things. Many new cars have a system built in as standard that allows you to use these apps. This is not the case with older models, but you can also make sure that you can use Android Auto and CarPlay. How do you install it? And what can you do with it?

What is Android Auto and Apple CarPlay?

You’re not allowed to use your mobile phone while driving. Are you? Then you could face a fine of €420. CarPlay and Android Auto ensure that you can use the useful functions of your smartphone while driving, without touching your phone. With these infotainment systems, the functions appear on your car’s display, the same screen you would use to operate the radio. Whether you can use Android Auto or CarPlay depends on what type of mobile phone you have. Android Auto, as the name suggests, is from Android. CarPlay, on the other hand, is from Apple.

The infotainment systems offer multiple functions. They are mainly used for navigation, but they also offer the option to play music or make hands-free calls. It is even possible to use WhatsApp. Messages are read by the system, after which you can record a response.

When can you use it?

Not all phones can use infotainment systems, though you don’t need the latest one. Apple allows CarPlay from the iPhone 5. For Android devices, Android Auto is installed by default on models running Android 10. Have an older Android phone? Then you can try installing the app manually.

Most new cars with a touch screen support the use of these systems. You can also use Android Auto and CarPlay in an older car, but then you will need to replace the car radio. This can cost several hundred euros. Another option is to install an additional screen in the car. Make sure that the additional screen does not obstruct your view of the road. You can buy this additional screen for about 100 euros.

Alternatives

It’s possible that you have an old car without a touchscreen, but you don’t want to spend the money to use Android Auto or CarPlay. If you have an Android phone, you can use Android Auto from your mobile phone. All you need is a car phone holder, so you can see your phone well while driving. CarPlay cannot be used via your phone. Do you have an Apple phone and no touchscreen in your car? Then you will have to accept another navigation app. You can of course also use TomTom for navigation, you don’t need your phone at all.

How do you use Android Auto and CarPlay?

Are your mobile phone and car eligible for CarPlay or Android Auto? Then all the lights will turn green. You can pair your smartphone with your car’s screen by following these steps:

• Make sure CarPlay or Android Auto is installed on your smartphone.
• Connect your phone to the USB port in your car using a USB cable.
• Your car’s radio should now automatically connect to the app you want to use. If it doesn’t, you may need to open the CarPlay or Android Auto app on your smartphone. There you can then grant permission to use it.

Newer models also allow you to connect wirelessly. In this case, you can follow these steps:

• Turn on Bluetooth and Wi-Fi on your smartphone.
• Connect your smartphone to the infotainment system via Bluetooth.
• Open CarPlay or Android Auto on your smartphone and follow the instructions to confirm the connection.

(Source: ANWB, NU.nl, Auto.nl, Autotrack. Image: Allard One/Shutterstock)