The app will allow for a configurable instrument cluster in addition to the usual infotainment controls
This will give both screens in the driver’s field of view a similar appearance
CarPlay will also feature updated maps that allow up to 15 stops on a single trip
Apple announced the new iOS 16 operating system today and it took the opportunity to unveil the next generation of Apple CarPlay, which will include more features than before.
Since most cars have a display in place of analog dials now, the instrument cluster can be used to display all sorts of information, notably about the infotainment system.
Apple will push this further when the new CarPlay rolls out early next year since its application will now take over the driver information screen and replace it with customizable gauges that can be added, deleted, moved, and recolored.
Next generation of Apple CarPlay | Photo: Apple
This will make both of the screens seen by the driver look and feel more like they are part of a single system, rather than having the Apple operating system on one screen and the automaker’s proprietary look and functionality on the other.
According to the tech company, the available gauges will include the speedometer and RPM gauge, as well as a battery or fuel level readout, the navigation system’s next guidance information, and the outside temperature.
As shown in the images, there will be a number of configuration options to personalize the instrument screen, such as different colours and shapes, going from normal-looking round gauges to distinctive bar graphs.
Next generation of Apple CarPlay | Photo: Apple
In addition, the infotainment system will benefit from the latest version of the Apple Maps application, which will now allow up to 15 stops to be scheduled on a single trip.
Apple says the system will automatically adapt to the screen size and format depending on the vehicle used, which will allow it to be installed seamlessly in a variety of cars from Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Nissan, Ford, Lincoln, Audi, Jaguar, Acura, Honda, Volvo, Polestar and Infiniti.
The respective manufacturers will announce which models will gain this new version later in the year or at the beginning of 2023.
