15 Best Apple CarPlay Apps

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Various apps displayed on a car's infotainment screen with the Apple CarPlay interface, including music, navigation, messaging, and podcast apps

 

Tired of the limited options and functionality of your car’s built-in infotainment system? Apple CarPlay has changed the way we interact with our cars, but did you know third-party apps can take it to the next level? In this article, we’ll look at the top Apple CarPlay apps, including the best third-party options, that will enhance your driving experience and keep you entertained, informed, and connected on the road.

Audible

Audible is the Apple app for book lovers who love to listen to audiobooks while driving. With a huge library of titles and seamless Apple CarPlay integration you can browse, buy and listen to your favourite books hands free. T he app’s simple interface and customizable playback settings make it a top choice for audiobook fans. Additionally, the Apple Books app offers a similar experience with its audiobooks feature, allowing users to purchase individual titles and enjoy literature read aloud without a subscription.

BBC Sounds

Stay informed and entertained with BBC Sounds, the app for the BBC’s vast library of radio shows, podcasts and music. From breaking news to documentaries, BBC Sounds has everything to keep you occupied on your commute. The app’s personalized recommendations and simple interface make it a must-have for BBC fans.

Additionally, the Apple Podcasts app offers features like listening to your favorite series, personalized recommendations, top charts, and exclusive premium content, making it a valuable app for podcast enthusiasts.

ChargePoint

Electric car owners rejoice! ChargePoint is the app for finding and using EV charging points. With Apple CarPlay integration you can find nearby charging points, check station availability and even initiate and monitor charging sessions right from your car’s screen. ChargePoint takes the guesswork out of EV charging so you’re always powered up and ready to go.

Chevron

Fill up with the Chevron app on your Apple CarPlay enabled car. Find nearby Chevron gas stations, compare prices and even pay for your gas from your car’s screen. The app’s simple interface and secure payment options make refuelling a breeze, saving you time and hassle on the road.

ESPN

Sports fans never miss a game or update with the ESPN app on Apple CarPlay. Get live scores, news and audio from your favourite teams and leagues all while keeping your eyes on the road. The app’s customisable alerts and simple menus make it easy to stay up to date with the latest sports action.

iHeart

Radio, Music, Podcasts: iHeart is the one stop shop for all things audio entertainment. With Apple CarPlay integration, you can access your favorite radio stations, music playlists, and podcasts from the comfort of your car.

Like Audible, the app’s personalized recommendations and simple controls make it easy to discover new content and enjoy your favorite shows hands-free. Additionally, Apple Music offers a vast music catalog, curated playlists, original content, and access to digital radio stations, along with Dolby Atmos spatial audio support for compatible car audio systems.

Google Maps

While Apple Maps is a good navigation app Google Maps takes it to the next level with its many features and simple interface. With Apple CarPlay support you can get real time traffic updates, alternative route suggestions and even offline maps when you’re out of cell range. Trust Google Maps to get you there efficiently and safely.

MLB

Baseball fans stay connected to the game with the MLB app on Apple CarPlay. Follow live scores, listen to game audio and catch up on the latest news and highlights from your favourite teams. The app’s customisable notifications and simple interface make it easy to stay engaged with America’s favourite pastime on the road.

onX Offroad

Off-road enthusiasts navigate the trails with onX Offroad on Apple CarPlay. This app has detailed maps, trail information and even land ownership data to help you plan and execute your off-road adventures. With real time location tracking and the ability to download maps for offline use onX Offroad is a must have for any serious off-roader.

Overcast

Podcast fans streamline your listening with Overcast on Apple CarPlay. This app has advanced features like smart speed, voice boost and custom playlists to enhance your podcast listening. With seamless integration and simple controls Overcast makes it easy to get into your favourite shows and discover new ones on the road.

Additionally, the Apple Podcasts app offers personalized recommendations, top charts, and exclusive premium content, making it a valuable choice for those who enjoy podcasts.

Spotify

No Apple CarPlay setup is complete without Spotify, the world’s leading music streaming service. With millions of songs, curated playlists and personalised recommendations Spotify ensures you always have the perfect playlist for your drive.

The app’s simple interface and hands free controls make it easy to navigate your music library and discover new artists. Additionally, Apple Music subscribers enjoy exclusive premium content within Apple Podcasts.

TomTom GO Navigation

For those who prefer an alternative to Google Maps or Apple Maps TomTom GO Navigation is a great choice. With Apple CarPlay support you can access TomTom’s accurate and reliable navigation features including real time traffic updates, speed camera alerts and offline maps. The app’s simple interface and clear voice guidance makes it easy to navigate unfamiliar roads with confidence.

Waze

Waze is one of the best navigation apps thanks to its community driven approach to real time traffic updates and road alerts. With Apple CarPlay integration you can access Waze’s unique features like user reported incidents, police activity and road closures all while keeping your hands on the wheel. Trust Waze to help you outsmart traffic and get there safely.

WhatsApp

Stay in touch with friends and family on the road with WhatsApp on Apple CarPlay. This popular messaging app lets you send and receive messages, make voice calls, and even access your chat history all through your car’s display.

With seamless integration and hands free functionality WhatsApp makes it easy to stay in touch without compromising your safety on the road. The Message CarPlay app lets you display received messages and read them out loud using Siri, and you can send messages via voice command, keeping your focus on the road.

Zoom

In the age of remote work Zoom has become an essential tool to stay connected with colleagues and clients. Now with Apple CarPlay support you can join Zoom meetings and conferences from your car. The app’s audio only mode and simple controls make it easy to be on calls while keeping your focus on the road, it’s a game changer for professionals on the go.

FAQs

What are the best apps for offroad enthusiasts on CarPlay?

onX Offroad is the top app for offroad enthusiasts on CarPlay. It has detailed maps, trails and tracking.

Which app is good for podcasts on CarPlay?

Overcast is great for podcasts on CarPlay, simple interface, smart speed and powerful playlist management.

What app is best for music on CarPlay?

Spotify is best for music on CarPlay, millions of songs, personalised playlists and simple interface.

There's no sound on my Apple CarPlay when using these apps. What should I do?

If you have no sound on Apple CarPlay with certain apps, check car audio settings and volume. If issue persists, reconnect your iPhone to CarPlay, which often resolves sound problems.

Is TomTom GO Navigation good for CarPlay users?

Yes TomTom GO Navigation is known for its reliability and customisability so it’s a great choice for CarPlay users who need a reliable navigation.

What makes Waze a good alternative to Apple Maps on CarPlay?

Waze has community driven updates, real time alerts, alternate route suggestions and hands free operation so it’s a great alternative to Apple Maps on CarPlay.

How does Waze get real time traffic information?

Waze uses crowd sourced data from its community of users to get real time traffic alerts, road obstacles and alternate route suggestions.

Can I use WhatsApp on CarPlay?

Yes WhatsApp is CarPlay compatible, you can receive message notifications, use voice commands and stay connected while driving.

How do I enable WhatsApp on CarPlay?

To enable WhatsApp on CarPlay make sure your app is updated, connect your iPhone to CarPlay and grant permissions in CarPlay settings on your iPhone.

Is Waze owned by Google?

Yes Waze is a community sourced navigation app owned by Google, it provides accurate and timely navigation through user contributions.

Can I watch Netflix on my Apple CarPlay?

You can't watch Netflix directly on Apple CarPlay due to safety reasons while driving. However, you can listen to audio from the Netflix app on your iPhone through CarPlay. While there might be some workarounds to watch Netflix on Apple CarPlay, please be advised that it's not safe to watch videos on your car's display while driving, and it may be illegal in many areas.

Download These Apps on BOSS Audio's Apple CarPlay

Third party apps on Apple CarPlay give you more functionality, entertainment and convenience for your drive. From navigation to audio entertainment these apps work seamlessly with your car. Additionally, the Apple apps installed, such as communication, music, podcasts, audiobooks, and navigation, provide valuable tools for drivers on the road.

Get your car’s infotainment system upgraded with a BOSS Audio head unit with Apple CarPlay. Our Apple CarPlay systems provide high-quality audio. You can enjoy crystal-clear sound when listening to your favorite music and podcasts.

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