Apple's CarPlay system turns your entire car into an iPhone hands-free

At the New York International AutoShow, Apple's CarPlay system was demonstrated in upcoming cars byVolvo, Mercedes-Benz, and Hyundai. In its current form, Siri becomesthe lead mediator between your iPhone and the vehicle. Instead of theiPhone's mic, Siri listens to your voice via microphones built in theauto, and functions as an elaborate hands-free tool - it lets youcall, text, listen to music and set travel routes.

Other than this basic mechanism, Applehas left it up to vehicle makers to decide how best to incorporateCarPlay in their products. Thus, Hyundai and Volvo drivers will becaressing touch-screen displays, while Mercedes-Benz is going theold-fashioned physical buttons route. Additionally, Volvo has decidedto let CarPlay access and control the vehicle's facilities, such asclimate control, while the other two treat it like an app that'ssupposed to be opened and closed depending on whether you use it.This doesn't sound very seamless.

Apart from the aforementionedmanufacturers, only Ferrari and Honda will be launchingCarPlay-enabled vehicles this year. But if you don't want to buy abrand-new luxury car, fret not, as Pioneer will be launching anaftermarket receiver that should fit in your current ride (andbudget).

source: TheVerge