[deverelle]

I was curious how Audi intends to implement CarPlay so I got my dealer to send me this FAQ:

Audi-Apple CarPlay FAQ

Q. Can’t I already connect my iPhone to my Audi MMI system?

A. For several years, Audi owners have been able to access music and address book files stored on their iPhones and iPods using the innovative Audi Music Interface connection with the MMI® system in their cars. In addition, most mobile devices can be connected through Bluetooth.

Q. How does CarPlay differ, then?

A. With the new CarPlay functions, Audi owners will be able to project the iPhone environment on the built-in displays of their cars. The unique MMI touch touchpad, voice commands and dials will then allow Audi owners to control and access their iPhone apps, as well as send and receive messages, listen to music and refer to Maps. When an iPhone is connected to the Audi MMI system by a USB cable, drivers will be asked if they want to use the display and controls for iPhone functions. Driver can switch to the MMI environment at any time and the CarPlay experience will end if the iPhone is disconnected.

Q. How will Audi control distractions with CarPlay?

A. Reducing driving distractions has been a core principle for Audi as electronics have taken a large role in the driving environment. That is no less true with the addition of CarPlay. With Apple engineers, Audi has included features that disable video or text-heavy content when the car is in motion. This is in keeping with current Audi MMI system practice.

Q. Why will it take until 2016 for CarPlay to appear in Audi models?

A. Audi is unique in offering drivers a touchpad to operate the MMI system while keeping their eyes on the road. This required the optimization of CarPlay for the advanced Audi system. What’s more, Audi will introduce CarPlay functionality with the next generation of its modular infotainment head unit now scheduled to appear in Europe next year and in U.S. models by early 2016. This timetable will allow the most seamless integration of CarPlay with the advanced voice recognition and other features. The Audi modular electronics architecture, or MIB, has been described by the automotive and technology media as an automotive breakthrough because it will allow engineers to quickly change out rapidly evolving components, such as graphics processors at the factory. This dramatically cuts the gap between cutting-edge consumer electronics lifecycles and automotive-grade electronics.

Q. Is Audi forcing me to choose between an iOS and an Android mobile device?

A. Absolutely not. Audi has announced a parallel plan to introduce Android Auto by 2015 in Europe and by early 2016 in the U.S. market. Android Auto will also allow Audi driver to access Android apps and services on their mobile devices.

Q. Does this all mean that Apple iOS will control the electronics systems in Audi models?

A. No. CarPlay allows the iPhone features to operate smoothly and efficiently with the in-car microphone, audio streams and in-car displays and driver inputs.

-END-

Contact Information

Bradley Stertz
Office: 703-364-7440
[email protected]

 

[Otto]

So will some US models get this system before 2016, or will it come out all at the same time in 2016?

 

[MPBQ3]

I'ver had the option of internet access with my cars since 2009 and have absolutely no interest in carplay.

 

[Quatto]

Eventually this will become more and more used, especially as self driving vehicles get into the hands of consumers, with less attention to focus on the road or none at all... there's more time to play around with tech.

 

[rnlabas]

Eventually this will become more and more used, especially as self driving vehicles get into the hands of consumers, with less attention to focus on the road or none at all... there's more time to play around with tech.

Oh my, by then I hope I'm a slobbering boob in some home instead of riding behind the 'steering nub' fiddling with tech to find a YouTube video of the road I'm "driving" down...

 

[Otto]

Once cars become autonomous I think the whole car industry will be focused on entertainment instead of driving. It will be a very interesting change in the auto industry.

 

[rnlabas]

omg !!

 

[Quatto]

Oh my, by then I hope I'm a slobbering boob in some home instead of riding behind the 'steering nub' fiddling with tech to find a YouTube video of the road I'm "driving" down...

Riding* down

 

[rnlabas]

that's why driving is in quotes ...

 

[serenity]

Does 2016 Audi Q3 have CarPlay?

I've been reading articles that any new models coming out will have CarPlay, but its not 100% clear on the Audi specs page for the 2016 model.

Thanks!

 

[ambushloco]

So far the new Q7, TT and B9 A4 will have it. I haven't used it yet but I would love to have CarPlay. First of all it's an Apple product, it's been put through the ringer as far as quality and reliability. It basically turns your screen into an iPhone with less apps. I think it will increase safety and get keep your eyes on the road more.

Right now, most of us use Apple Maps or some sort of maps app on our phones instead of the car's navigation system to get from place to place, appointment to appointment. You take your eyes off the road when you look at your phone for the next turn. It will not be on your Nav screen and audible, pair that with the taptic feedback of a Watch and you are in a much safer driving environment.

Siri has gotten VERY good. With a dedicated Siri button on the steering wheel, easy commands like 'Take me home' or 'Call my wife' or 'Where is the nearest gas station' or 'Play something by Above & Beyond' can be done on the fly and with no distraction.

There will be many other benefits but those along are good enough for me

 

[boblepp]

omg !!

I'm with you Roger.... autonomous cars will end after the first USA fatality when the court battle drags in everyone down to the programmers and map makers involved. The odds of this happening (I hope) match those of flying cars in every driveway and drone delivery of packages by Amazon.

 

[rnlabas]

I'm with you Roger.... autonomous cars will end after the first USA fatality when the court battle drags in everyone down to the programmers and map makers involved. The odds of this happening (I hope) match those of flying cars in every driveway and drone delivery of packages by Amazon.

I think we'll see the Amazon drones first ...

 

[al1020blue]

So does this mean I would have to buy a 2017 Q3 to get CarPlay? Or is there the possibility of it being available to the current system as well?

 

[Ourob0r0s11]

Am I the only Android Auto fan here? Can't stand apple or their products.

 

[AudiFox]

Am I the only Android Auto fan here? Can't stand apple or their products.

You're not the only one. Apple is the bane of my life and I despise it to the core. There's just a whole slew of issues every time there is a iOS update and by gearing CarPLay towards iPhone users only, Audi is basically alienating Android users when it comes to electronics.

 

[BobInPa]

You're not the only one. Apple is the bane of my life and I despise it to the core. There's just a whole slew of issues every time there is a iOS update and by gearing CarPLay towards iPhone users only, Audi is basically alienating Android users when it comes to electronics.

Talk about it! Apple products don't play well with others.
However, since the 2016 VWs will have the ability to use CarPlay and AndroidAuto, I can't imagine that Audi wouldn't.

 

[vestergirl]

Once cars become autonomous I think the whole car industry will be focused on entertainment instead of driving. It will be a very interesting change in the auto industry.

...and not a good one. :crying:

 

[AudiFox]

Google is already part way there. They are already testing their autonomous car on the streets with passengers.

 

[Otto]

...and not a good one. :crying:

There will be pros and cons I'm sure. For those who love to drive it will be a pretty devastating blow, but perhaps it will mean that those people will be catered to with specific "cars for drivers" that really focus on engaging them.

Plus, I'm sure they will do something with this new breed of car that will entertain you. That is their mission after all.