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Motoring
How do I connect to Apple CarPlay or Android Auto in my car?
Apple CarPlay vs Android Auto: what's the difference?
Many new cars now come with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto as standard. Learn about the key differences between the two systems and the laws around using them.
If you’re in the market for a new car (or even a late model second-hand car) it’s highly likely your vehicle will be enabled for Apple CarPlay, Android Auto or both.
With around 1,300 car models across all major manufacturers now supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, these technologies have become standard for new vehicle infotainment.
While many drivers may feel familiar with the tech due to its integration with the leading smartphone operating systems, it's important to learn how Apple CarPlay and Android Auto work and set them up before driving. It's also crucial to be aware of the Victorian laws that apply to inbuilt devices and stay safe while driving.
Here’s everything you need to know about Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, including how they work, what vehicles they're supported in, and the road rules that govern their usage.
In this article
Android Auto and Apple CarPlay allow your car's infotainment screen to "mirror" a simplified version of your Apple or Android mobile device.
What are Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto turn your car’s infotainment system into a cut down version of your connected Apple or Android smartphone.
This allows you to use certain navigation, audio, call and messaging apps through your car’s inbuilt screens.
What are the main differences between Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
The differences between Apple CarPlay and Android Auto mirror those between Apple and Android phones. They include:
- Display: CarPlay and Android Auto look different and have slightly different layouts when displayed on your car’s screens.
- Available applications: As per Apple’s “walled garden” approach to apps, Android Auto has more third-party apps available to use compared to CarPlay.
- Customisation: Android Auto’s user interface can be customised more thoroughly, though CarPlay still has some personalisation features, including several preset wallpapers to choose from.
Functionally, both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are very similar. Both allow you to use navigation, audio, call and messaging apps. Both come with voice and touchscreen controls. Both can be connected wirelessly or via a compatible USB cable (though the availability of a wireless connection varies between car models).
Whether Apple CarPlay or Android Auto is better for you essentially comes down to your personal preference for Apple or Android products.
Can vehicles have both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto installed?
Yes, new cars can come with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility and many do. This means that you can choose the new car that you want without having to also ensure it works with your phone’s operating system.
Many cars allow you to also switch between the systems, meaning households with both Android and Apple devices can use the same car.
Are there advantages to using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto over Bluetooth connection?
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto allow you to use many of the same functions and apps you might use via your phone (either by itself of via a Bluetooth connection to your car). For example, a phone connected via Bluetooth to your car can still make and receive calls, play music or provide navigation.
An advantage of CarPlay or Android Auto is that it simplifies and enlarges apps so they are more accessible while driving. There are only certain apps that are supported through these systems, so theoretically there is less opportunity for distractions.
Using a wired CarPlay or Android Auto setup typically also produces better sound quality when listening to music, compared to Bluetooth connections which can compress audio further (which reduces sound quality).
Note that even while CarPlay and Android Auto remove the need for your phone to be directly on display, road rules still apply to using these systems via your inbuilt car screen: see below for more details.
You can connect Apple CarPlay and Android Auto wirelessly or by using a suitable USB cord, but not all vehicles support both types of connection.
Using Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
How do I connect to Apple CarPlay or Android Auto in my car?
Android Auto and Apple CarPlay can both be connected via a compatible cable or wirelessly. Not all vehicles support both wireless and cabled connections, however, so check first.
It’s important that you connect to Apple CarPlay or Android Auto only while your car is safely parked. When connecting to CarPlay or Android Auto follow all prompts from your phone and inbuilt systems.
Check in your handbook which USB socket carries the correct data connection, as not all USBs will work. Sometimes it will be indicated by a smartphone icon.
After the initial setup via Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will usually connect automatically when you enter your vehicle. For more information, visit the official Android Auto or Apple CarPlay help pages.
Are Apple CarPlay and Android Auto only accessible through the touchscreen?
Both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto have touchscreen and voice controls enabled. Be mindful that there are strict conditions under which you can use either type of controls in inbuilt car devices in Victoria.
Can an Android device use Apple CarPlay (and vice versa)?
No, only Android phones can connect to Android Auto and only Apple phones can connect to CarPlay.
Additionally, your device must be running either Android 9.0 or later, or iOS 7.1 or later, to be compatible with Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. Note that there are additional requirements for wireless Android Auto connection.
Does using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto use mobile data?
Yes, using any app that would consume data on your phone will also consume data through CarPlay or Android Auto.
You can help reduce data usage by downloading playlists, podcasts or directions when you have wi-fi prior to commencing your journey.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are supported in a combined 1,300-plus car models, including the MG Cyberster.
What vehicles have Apple CarPlay or Android Auto?
Most major vehicle manufacturers now offer cars, vans, and even some motorcycles with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto intergrated. However, not all models include the feature – visit the Android Auto or Apple CarPlay websites for the full list of compatible vehicles.
Search and compare thousands of cars online with our expert reviews and insights.
How do I know if my car is equipped with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto?
To find out if your vehicle has Apple CarPlay or Android Auto installed, visit the compatibility lists on the Apple and Android websites. Alternatively, you may be able to determine whether your car has the feature by exploring its infotainment system or contacting your manufacturer.
Can I install Apple CarPlay or Android Auto on an older car as an aftermarket accessory?
Yes, you can add Apple CarPlay or Android Auto to your car as an aftermarket accessory even if it didn’t come manufactured with it.
Dongles that upgrade wired CarPlay or Android Auto units to wireless versions can also be purchased.
Navigation apps can be lawfully used with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
What are the laws around using Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
In Victoria, there are laws governing the use of both mobile phones and inbuilt devices in cars. This includes systems like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Drivers with a full licence can briefly touch an inbuilt device only for the following tasks:
- Adjust volume
- Play or stream audio
- Initiate, accept or reject a phone call
- Use a navigation function (you cannot enter information via the touchscreen, for example, entering an address)
- Use a function on the device designed to assist the driver to operate the vehicle
- Use a function on the device designed to monitor the driver’s behaviour or condition, or
- Carry out a professional driving task
Motorists with Learner, P1 or P2 licences can only briefly touch their inbuilt device to adjust navigation settings, climate controls and audio functions (such as the radio).
Motorists should not assume that it is legal to use an app or function while driving just because it is available on Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will connect to the steering wheel function buttons so you can use voice commands to select functions, choose playlists and dictate address details.
Read more: The inbuilt car device laws in Victoria.
Is it legal to use messaging apps on Apple CarPlay or Android Auto?
In Victoria it is illegal for all drivers to display, read or write text messages, emails, or posts while driving. It is also illegal to enter information, text, numbers or symbols while driving (unless using voice controls).
Read more: Can I use my mobile phone while driving in Victoria?
Can I modify my Apple CarPlay or Android Auto systems?
Both CarPlay and Android Auto come with the ability to be customised.
Motorists should remember that integrated systems like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are part of the vehicle’s operational interface—not standalone entertainment platforms—and should not be modified in ways that could create distractions while driving.
The information provided is general advice only. Before making any decisions, please consider your own circumstances and the Product Disclosure Statement and Target Market Determinations. For copies, visit racv.com.au. As distributor, RACV Insurance Services Pty Ltd AFS Licence No. 230039 receives commission for each policy sold or renewed. Product(s) issued by Insurance Manufacturers of Australia Pty Ltd ABN 93 004 208 084 AFS Licence No. 227678.
