CarPlay in 2016 Mercedes-Benz
According to C450 AMG, Mercedes-Benz recently issued an internal announcement to U.S. auto dealers confirming Apple’s CarPlay will be supported in a number of 2016 model vehicles. CarPlay will be controlled from a central controller (or optional touchpad). It will also have Siri voice capabilities via a button on the steering wheel.
Using your phone while driving
In case you missed it, CarPlay is the new way to use your iPhone while in your car. You can get directions, make calls, send and receive messages, and listen to music, all in a way that allows you to stay focused on the road. All you need to do is plug in your iPhone and go.
With the integrated CarPlay features, Siri is designed for specific driving scenarios and will work with your car’s controls (knobs, buttons, and touchscreens) to tend to your needs. This allows you to keep your hands and eyes on the road, while still using your favorite apps. It also supports third-party apps like iHeartRadio, Audio Books, Podcasts, and Pandora, giving you a wide range of entertainment choices for your car.
Custom interface and models
In the case of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, CarPlay will be a completely different interface than the customary infotainment. You will not be able to use the Mercedes-Benz head unit functions at the same time as CarPlay. Nevertheless, CarPlay will be available in 2016 CLA, GLA, and B-Class vehicles with December 1, 2015 or later production.
For the E400, E550, and CLS400 coupes, as well as, the E400 and E550 Cabriolets, the software will be available with “Premium 1” or “Premium 2” equipment packages. It will also be included with standard COMAND Navigation in 2016 CLS550 and CLS63 Coupes, as well as, 2016 GLE400*, GLE450*, CLE63, and GLE63 S* models. (*These models will have a January 8, 2016 or later production date).
Not the last time
While Mercedes-Benz is the latest addition to the CarPlay family, I certainly doubt it will be the last. Car manufacturers from Ford the Ferrari are integrating the CarPlay system into their models.
CarPlay is compatible with the iPhone 5 or later (running iOS 8 or newer).
For more information about CarPlay, or to see if your favorite brand will be CarPlay compatible, visit this link.
