Volvo Brings Apple CarPlay to Google Built In
August 17 2022,
Volvo cars equipped with the new Google Built-in infotainment system can now receive an over-the-air update that brings Apple CarPlay connectivity.
This means that drivers who own an iPhone will be able to connect their device to the vehicle and benefit from the added connectivity CarPlay can provide.
When in use, Apple CarPlay allows drivers to make phone calls, navigate to a destination, choose their music or use a number of other apps directly from their phone, which makes for a convenient and easy-to-use interface.
When needed, drivers can easily switch to using the standard infotainment system and come back to CarPlay without having to worry about disconnecting their phone or going through a number of menus.
Since this update is released over the air, it will not require owners of the eligible vehicles to take their cars in for service in order to unlock this new feature.
Indeed, the update uses the Volvo vehicle’s data plan to stay connected to the internet in order to be downloaded.
What’s more, this update is available for free to owners of every 2023 Volvo model and select vehicles from earlier years equipped with the latest infotainment system, such as the electric XC40 Recharge.
Allowing over-the-air updates makes new Volvo vehicles stay new longer by making sure older models are kept up to date by offering the same connectivity and convenience features as the brand-new vehicles that are rolling off the assembly lines.
In addition to features related to the infotainment system, these updates can also affect parameters of other vehicle systems, including the electric or hybrid powertrain, meaning that electric Volvo vehicles can be made more efficient as the technology progresses, instead of being stuck at the same level from manufacture to end of life.
