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Apple introduces CarPlay at Geneva International Motor Show

Not content with only dominating the smartphone, tablet and music player markets, Apple has ventured into the world of in-car entertainment. At the Geneva International Motor Show, the American tech giant introduced CarPlay, a system that will improve compatibility between iPhones and cars.

In 2014, select models will be rolled out with this technology installed, giving drivers the ability to sync their Lightening-enabled iOS7 mobile phone with their vehicle. It looks like windscreen-mounted cradles could soon be a thing of the past.

After plugging in their device, users will be able to access a number of features through the dashboard touchscreen, which can be operated manually or through the Siri digital assistant. This is activated with a button on the steering wheel and controlled with voice commands.

As such, drivers should be able to keep their eyes on the road while still enjoying in-car entertainment and practical functions.

Thanks to Siri, CarPlay owners will be able to answer or make calls, and compose or listen to text messages, simply by speaking. This hands-free operation means communicating while on the road is safer—and legal.

Voice commands can also set up routes and activate turn-by-turn instructions through Maps, eliminating the need to fiddle with a sat nav. The technology can also be used to organise audio entertainment: Music, Podcasts, Beats Music, iHeartRadio and Spotify are among the apps supported by CarPlay.

Apple’s vice president of iPhone and iOS Product Marketing Greg Joswiak said: “CarPlay has been designed from the ground up to provide drivers with an incredible experience using their iPhone in the car. iPhone users always want their content at their fingertips and CarPlay lets drivers use their iPhone in the car with minimised distraction.”

Ferrari, Honda, Hyundai, Jaguar, Mercedez-Benz and Volvo will be shipping CarPlay-equipped cars in 2014, with partners including Ford, BMW and Land Rover confirmed for future releases. That means there should be plenty of choice for iPhone owners who want to use this new technology.

However, with a number of sophisticated in-car entertainment systems already available, Apple faces plenty of competition. Ford Sync with MyFord Touch also uses voice-activated technology and a touchscreen display to give users control, and it’s currently available on models including the 2013 Focus. Plus, since this tech has been around for longer, people can get it for a lower price, by picking up a nearly new or used model from dealers like Motorparks.

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