How CarPlay Head Units Enhance Your Driving Experience

According to a McKinsey survey, 45% of car owners with CarPlay use the service regularly. 85% even prefer CarPlay over their vehicle's built-in infotainment systems. Why is that?

Many users say that wireless CarPlay actually enhances their driving experience. The navigation capabilities are the most compelling feature, while others prefer it due to the voice control and hands-free operation. If you haven’t already upgraded the CarPlay head unit for your car, this is your sign to do so. 

Here’s how a CarPlay head unit kit from Pinnacle Car Radios can improve your driving experience. 

Understanding CarPlay Head Units

Apple CarPlay is an infotainment technology that integrates your iPhone with your car’s audio system. Its main feature is showing the familiar iOS interface on your car’s display. This way, you can access your favourite apps while keeping your eyes on the road. 

CarPlay is designed with safety in mind. Drivers can use it for voice-controlled navigation, entertainment, and communication. Benefits of an upgraded CarPlay head unit kit include:

  • Hands-free communication: CarPlay allows you to make and receive calls without taking your hands off the wheel. 
  • Real-time navigation updates: CarPlay provides access to real-time traffic information so you can avoid jams and find the most efficient routes. 
  • Access to entertainment apps: CarPlay gives you access to Spotify, Pandora, and Audible. You can effortlessly enjoy your favourite music, podcasts, or audiobooks while driving. 

Enhanced Safety Features

CarPlay’s hands-free controls are designed for safety. Drivers can use Siri voice commands to make calls, send texts, and get directions while keeping their eyes on the road and hands on the wheel. Reduced distractions mean a safer driving experience.

In fact, CarPlay reduces distractions by making everything faster. Studies have found that CarPlay makes sending a text 24% faster and programming navigation 34% easier.

One of the main features is the map integration, which provides live traffic information. Users can get real-time alerts and suggested alternative routes to avoid traffic jams. You’ll be able to reach your destination faster and safer with CarPlay's intelligent navigation.

Improved Navigation and Connectivity

CarPlay is best known for its precise turn-by-turn directions with detailed 3D maps. Plus, it’s easy to stay up-to-date with automatic maps and software updates. Users can find the best route to their destination in just seconds. 

In fact, CarPlay head unit users can program navigation in 33 seconds. That’s 15 seconds faster than using built-in OEM systems. That’s one of the main reasons CarPlay outperforms Android Auto in terms of satisfaction, scoring 777 out of 1,000.

You can also connect your iPhone with CarPlay for hands-free calls and music streaming. Since it can connect to WiFi, you’ll automatically get app updates and online features.

These features reduce the cognitive workload on drivers. Of course, using CarPlay is still more distracting than driving without any infotainment, but it’s safer than using your phone or a traditional system with no voice control. 

Personalised Driving Experience

CarPlay allows you to tailor your driving experience to your exact preferences. Users can adjust their settings for brightness, audio output, and even the layout of their home screen. 

In simple words, you’ll have almost every iPhone feature. Create personalised playlists for different moods or set up custom shortcuts for frequently used apps or contacts. With CarPlay, your car truly becomes an extension of your digital life.

In a McKinsey survey, 30% of respondents said they find personalised connectivity features valuable, especially in-car personal assistants. That’s exactly what you get from CarPlay in the form of Siri. 

CarPlay has an intuitive interface that is designed with simplicity in mind. It has large, clear icons and a logical menu structure, so you can quickly find what you need, even on the go. Around 37% of US buyers would change their car for a better digital experience, which is what CarPlay offers.

Installation and Compatibility

Typically, CarPlay head units require proper, lengthy installation. But with Pinnacle Car Radios’ head unit kits for CarPlay, you can even install it yourself. The kit comes with all the hardware and documentation you need to get the job done. 

But if DIY installation isn’t your thing, hiring a professional is just as easy. Pinnacle Car Radios offers expert installation services for all their CarPlay head units. A skilled technician will correctly connect the hardware, calibrate the system, and troubleshoot any issues for you.

Plus, their technicians are well-versed in the latest CarPlay technology. They’ll recommend the best solution for your vehicle since Pinnacle Car Radios offers custom CarPlay head units for every make and model. 

That’s right, CarPlay compatibility can vary between car models! As of now, over 800 car models support CarPlay. 

According to Apple’s engineering manager, 98% of new cars come with wireless CarPlay already installed. However, older models may need an aftermarket installation. 

Don’t worry. Whether you have a Toyota Camry 2006-11 or a  VW Polo 2010-14, Pinnacle Car Radios has the perfect CarPlay head unit kit for you. 

Customer Testimonials and Experiences

Don't just take our word for it – here’s what our satisfied customers had to say about the difference a CarPlay head unit from Pinnacle Car Radio has made to their driving experience:

"Great service so far! The team at Pinnacle Car Radios was second to none! Responsive, professional and extremely easy going… you have the questions; he has the answers! Look no further; get onto him and the team!" – Peter T. 

“Amazing team! Wanted to upgrade my car audio system, and Pinnacle Car Radios went above and beyond my expectations. They explain the different available products and the quality of the products they recommend. Everything was installed in under 2 hours." – Michael J.

“Great service! Delivery was quick, and the radio was easy to use! Big thanks to the team at Pinnacle Car Radios!" – Alfred S.

"Would highly recommend it to all! Not only was the product quality of high standard but so was the speedy shipping of products and the after-sales support. Overall, the product integrated well with my vehicle." – Joey N. 

Conclusion

A CarPlay head unit can truly transform your driving experience. If your car doesn’t already have one, you’re in luck. 

Pinnacle Car Radios offers custom CarPlay head unit kits for just about any make and model. Use these kits to install the head unit or yourself, or let a Pinnacle specialist do it for you! Contact us today to get started.

Back to blog