Apple CarPlay facelift revealed
New layout and improved Siri voice command for Apple’s ubiquitous in-car serviceApple’s popular CarPlay software has received small revisions aimed at improving useability.
The tech giant used its keynote at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) overnight to reveal a host of small changes including the ability to display multiple apps on the same screen (side by side), new map features and enhanced voice functionality.
The new version of CarPlay will roll out as part of iOS 13, which can be installed on supported iPhones from the third quarter of 2019.
The changes come as most modern car-makers, including Mazda and Toyota, extend their infotainment suite to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in the face of growing consumer demand.
In terms of Siri, users will gain access to a smoother voice that is easier to understand.
Furthermore, utilising Siri will no longer take up the entire screen, and the feature can now interact with third-party apps such as Pandora and Waze.
The new mobile software also facilitates an updated Apple Maps app bringing new mapping data, a Google Street View-like feature, and a ground-up code redesign.
Elsewhere, the in-house Music app has been reworked to offer more album art, there are more location-based notifications and the Calendar app now allows the drive to dial directly into meetings or get directions to upcoming appointments.
The Apple unveiling follows a significant design update to Google’s CarPlay competitor, Android Auto, last month.
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