Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in your MG: how does it work and what are the benefits?

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are basically the same. Apple CarPlay is designed for iPhone users, while Android Auto is intended for smartphones running on Android software. Both systems are developed to operate the most important functions of your smartphone via the car’s multimedia system.

As soon as you pair your phone with the multimedia system via a USB cable, a connection is automatically established. From that moment on, the familiar iOS or Android interface appears on the screen of the car.

Make phone calls, navigate and listen to music

The apps shown on the touchscreen are immediately recognizable and ready to use. You can make calls, navigate with Google Maps, Waze or Apple Maps, listen to music via Spotify, listen to stories via podcasts and use all kinds of other apps. Just like you always do with your phone, just without holding it.

Voice control via Siri or Google Assistant is also useful, for example to set a new navigation route. You can even have Whatsapp messages read to you and send a text message using speech-to-text. And all this with both hands on the steering wheel and your eyes on the road.

Via the settings of your phone, you can select which apps you want to use for Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. However, not all apps are suitable for this purpose with regard to road safety.

Advantages Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

The main advantage of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is that you won’t be distracted by your phone while driving. You can keep your eyes on the road. Both systems were primarily developed to prevent distraction while driving and to increase road safety. Smartphone distraction is one of the greatest dangers in modern traffic.

Another advantage is the ease of operation thanks to full integration. All functionalities of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto can simply be operated via the touchscreen, steering wheel control or voice control. The sound of the music or a phone call sounds loud and clear through your car’s audio system.

These phones are compatible

Apple CarPlay can be used with any iPhone 5 or newer. Since iOS 9, you can also connect your iPhone wirelessly.

All Android smartphones with the operating system Android 10 or higher are suitable for Android Auto. Android 9 or older users must first download the Android Auto app from the Google Play Store. Phones must run at least Android 6.0 to use Android Auto at all.