If you’re looking to upgrade your car’s infotainment system, you’ve likely come across Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Both systems allow you to connect your smartphone to your car’s display, offering hands-free calling, navigation, music streaming, and more. But which one is better for your driving experience?
In this guide, we’ll compare Apple CarPlay vs. Android Auto in terms of usability, features, compatibility, and overall experience, helping you decide which system is right for you.
What Are Apple CarPlay & Android Auto?
Both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are smartphone integration systems that allow you to use your phone’s apps through your car’s infotainment screen.
- Apple CarPlay is designed for iPhone users (iOS 9 and later).
- Android Auto is made for Android users (Android 6.0 and later).
These systems provide safer access to key apps while driving, including Google Maps, Spotify, Apple Music, WhatsApp, and more.
✅ Key Benefits of Both Systems
✔ Hands-free control with voice assistants (Siri for CarPlay, Google Assistant for Android Auto)
✔ Navigation apps like Google Maps, Waze, and Apple Maps
✔ Music streaming from Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, and more
✔ Phone calls & messaging with hands-free texting via Siri or Google Assistant
✔ Third-party app support for podcasts, audiobooks, and messaging
Apple CarPlay vs. Android Auto
| Feature | Apple CarPlay | Android Auto |
|---|---|---|
| Voice Assistant | Siri | Google Assistant |
| Navigation | Apple Maps, Google Maps, Waze | Google Maps, Waze |
| Wireless Connectivity | Available (on newer models) | Available (on newer models) |
| Music Apps | Apple Music, Spotify, YouTube Music, Audible | Spotify, YouTube Music, Apple Music, Audible |
| Messaging Apps | iMessage, WhatsApp | WhatsApp, Telegram, Facebook Messenger |
| Interface Design | Simple, iPhone-style layout | More customisable layout |
| Third-Party App Support | Limited but growing | More flexibility with third-party apps |
| Overall Experience | Seamless for iPhone users | More flexibility, better voice recognition |
User Experience
Apple CarPlay: Smooth & Simple
- Best for iPhone users who want a familiar interface and seamless integration.
- CarPlay mirrors the iOS experience, making it easy to use for Apple users.
- Siri works well but can be less powerful than Google Assistant.
- Less customisation – Apple controls the interface design.
Android Auto: More Customisation & Smarter Assistant
- Best for Android users who love Google services and customisation options.
- Google Assistant is better at voice recognition and handles complex commands well.
- More flexibility in arranging apps, widgets, and third-party app support.
- Some car models have limited Android Auto compatibility compared to CarPlay.
Navigation
Apple CarPlay Navigation
✅ Apple Maps has improved but still lags behind Google Maps.
✅ Supports Google Maps and Waze (since iOS 12), giving users more options.
✅ Real-time traffic updates and Siri voice guidance work well.
Android Auto Navigation
✅ Google Maps and Waze are the default – both offer excellent real-time traffic updates.
✅ Google Assistant provides better voice-guided directions than Siri.
✅ Better integration with Google services (e.g., search history, saved locations).
🏆 Winner: Android Auto for better navigation, especially with Google Maps integration.
Wireless vs. Wired Connection
Apple CarPlay
🔹 Wireless CarPlay is available on many new vehicles (2020+ models).
🔹 Works seamlessly with iPhone 8 and later.
🔹 Faster & smoother wireless experience compared to Android Auto.
Android Auto
🔹 Wireless Android Auto is available, but only on certain car models.
🔹 Some older Android phones may not support wireless connections.
🔹 Requires strong Bluetooth & Wi-Fi connection for smooth operation.
🏆 Winner: Apple CarPlay offers a more consistent wireless experience across car models.
Which One is More Widely Supported?
Apple CarPlay Compatibility
✅ Works on over 600 car models, including Toyota, Honda, Ford, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz.
✅ More consistent performance across different vehicles.
Android Auto Compatibility
✅ Works on most modern car brands but some vehicles have limited support.
✅ More compatibility issues reported on older car models.
🏆 Winner: Apple CarPlay is more widely supported across vehicles with fewer compatibility issues.
Apple CarPlay vs. Android Auto: Which One Should You Choose?
Choose Apple CarPlay If You:
✔ Use an iPhone and prefer the Apple ecosystem.
✔ Want a seamless, easy-to-use interface.
✔ Drive a newer car that supports wireless CarPlay.
✔ Prefer Apple’s privacy policies over Google’s data collection.
Choose Android Auto If You:
✔ Prefer Google Maps & Google Assistant over Siri.
✔ Want more customisation and flexibility.
✔ Use an Android phone with Google services.
✔ Need better third-party app support.
How to Upgrade Your Car with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto in Melbourne
If your car doesn’t come with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, you can upgrade with an aftermarket head unit.
Where to Get Apple CarPlay or Android Auto Installed in Melbourne?
At Tower Audio, we specialise in:
✅ Apple CarPlay & Android Auto installation for all car models
✅ Factory-style head unit upgrades
✅ Wireless CarPlay/Android Auto retrofitting
✅ Affordable pricing & professional service
📍 Located in Melbourne? Contact us today for a free consultation!
📞 Call: 03 955 33054
Final Verdict: Apple CarPlay vs. Android Auto – Who Wins?
👉 Apple CarPlay is better for iPhone users who want simplicity, reliability, and wireless support.
👉 Android Auto is better for those who prefer Google Maps, customisation, and Google Assistant.
Both systems are excellent upgrades that enhance safety and convenience. If your car doesn’t have Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, now is the perfect time to upgrade! 🚗💨
📢 Need help choosing the right system for your car? Contact us today for expert advice! 🚀
