CarPlay for developers

A smarter, safer way to use iPhone in the car, CarPlay lets people get directions, make calls, send and receive messages, and listen to music from their car’s built-in display, all while staying focused on the road.

Creating apps for CarPlay

CarPlay apps have access to templates and tools that help provide smarter, safer ways to use iPhone in the car. Audio apps can deliver music, news, podcasts, and more. Messaging and calling apps that work with SiriKit can be updated to appear in CarPlay. Navigation apps can provide turn-by-turn instructions and detailed maps. Apps in categories like EV charging, parking, and quick food ordering can help people accomplish important tasks in CarPlay. Apps published by car manufacturers are also supported, so people can control more car features without ever leaving CarPlay.

New for iOS 16

Driving task apps help people take care of essentials while behind the wheel. Fueling apps join EV charging apps as a complete way to handle fill-ups and keep you going on the road. Navigation apps can now display maps and turn-by-turn instructions in a second location, such as the instrument cluster located directly in front of the driver.

CarPlay Simulator

The new CarPlay Simulator helps you replicate a complete CarPlay environment, so you can develop your CarPlay app on Mac without leaving your desk. Simply connect your iPhone to your Mac with a cable, and you’re ready to design your CarPlay app. CarPlay Simulator is included in Additional Tools for Xcode.

Download Additional Tools for Xcode

Updated guide and documentation

The CarPlay App Programming Guide is the starting point for all CarPlay app development. It provides important instructions and guidelines, and introduces the templates you need to develop CarPlay apps. The latest framework documentation has also been updated.

WWDC22 session

Get more mileage out of your app with CarPlay

Developing CarPlay systems

Learn how to update your vehicle system to support the latest CarPlay features. Add support for second screens, such as instrument clusters, irregularly shaped displays, and dynamically changing screen sizes. Learn how to support “Hey Siri” for hands-free voice activation. If you’re interested in CarPlay systems, learn more about the MFi Program.

Advances in CarPlay Systems

Developing Wireless CarPlay Systems

Developing CarPlay Systems, Part 1

Developing CarPlay Systems, Part 2

Car keys

With digital car keys, people can unlock and start their car with iPhone or Apple Watch. You can update your vehicle system to support car keys.