4 reasons to invest in Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

As smartphone technology improves, drivers quickly demand more from their cars. After all, why should the phone in your pocket have a better screen and more responsive user interface than the one in your car?

Understanding this, many car manufacturers have been integrating these two systems into the infotainment systems of their cars. But if you drive an older car without Apple CarPlay or Android Auto connectivity, that doesn't mean you can't enjoy their benefits.

Many aftermarket car audio manufacturers are now integrating these systems into their head units and here are four reasons why you should consider purchasing one for your car this year.

1. Driving without distractions

Apple Carplay and Android Auto let you drive and make voice commands, for example, through Siri if you have an iPhone, so you don't have to manually use your phone. Instead you just click a button - and make your command.

Instead of fixing your eyes on the screen and risking the chance of causing an accident, just voice command your message through Siri, or if you have an Android phone, through Google Assistant.

If you want to send a text message, you'll have to dictate it out loud. When you receive a reply, both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will in turn read it to you. With such strict laws against texting and driving these days, this is definitely the way to go if you need to communicate while behind the wheel.

2. Better navigation

Factory navigation systems may not be the most accurate or intuitive to use. With Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, you can mirror your navigation apps such as Apple Maps, Google Maps and Waze on your car's head unit.

3. Personalised music

Most modern cars allow you to connect your smartphone via USB cable and Bluetooth, and play your music through the factory infotainment system.

But with an Apple Carplay or Android Auto-equipped unit you can also listen to Amazon Music, Google Play music and Spotify.

4. Wireless connectivity

Aside from plugging in via a USB cable, there's now also the possibility of connecting your smartphone wirelessly with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

That means you can have some of the most useful apps, navigation, music, your phone book and more mirrored on your screen - without having your phone plugged in. However, connecting via cable is still our preferred option as it allows you to charge your smartphone at the same time.