With Apple CarPlay making driving more connected, many are curious about how to watch YouTube on their car’s display. While CarPlay doesn’t natively support it, a few clever tricks can help you access your favorite videos safely. Here’s everything you need to know to make it happen.

Why CarPlay Doesn’t Support YouTube Natively?

Apple CarPlay is designed with safety as its top priority, aiming to reduce distractions and keep drivers focused on the road. Apple’s strict guidelines limit video playback on CarPlay to prevent unnecessary visual distractions while driving. This means that apps like YouTube, which involve visual engagement, aren’t available natively on CarPlay. Instead, CarPlay supports only audio-based apps like navigation, music, and messaging to promote a safer driving experience. While this focus on safety is beneficial, it has led some users to explore alternative ways to bring video content into their CarPlay setup.

So, can we watch YouTube in Apple CarPlay? Officially, the answer is no, as Apple has set firm restrictions on video apps. However, for those determined to access YouTube, some workarounds have emerged, from screen mirroring to third-party apps. While these methods aren’t officially supported, they offer creative ways for users to watch videos when safe and parked.

4 Ways to Watch YouTube on CarPlay

While Apple CarPlay doesn’t support YouTube natively, there are several methods to get around this limitation. Below are the step-by-step instructions for the most common workarounds, along with a summary of their pros and cons.

1. Jailbreaking Your iPhone and Using Third-Party Apps

Jailbreaking your iPhone is the most direct method to bypass CarPlay’s restrictions and access YouTube. However, this method carries significant risks.

Steps:

• Step 1: Backup your iPhone to ensure no data is lost during the jailbreak process.

• Step 2: Research and select a reliable jailbreak tool for your iPhone model (e.g., unc0ver or checkra1n).

• Step 3: Follow the instructions on the jailbreak tool to remove Apple’s restrictions from your device.

• Step 4: Install third-party apps like CarBridge or NGXPlay from Cydia (the jailbreak app store). These apps allow video playback on CarPlay, including YouTube.

• Step 5: Open YouTube through the third-party app on CarPlay and start watching videos.

Pros:

• Grants full access to YouTube and other video apps on CarPlay.

• Allows customization of CarPlay with additional apps and features.

Cons:

• Risk to security: Jailbreaking exposes your device to potential malware and security vulnerabilities.

• Warranty void: Jailbreaking voids any Apple warranty or support.

• Potential instability: Jailbroken iPhones can experience bugs or crashes, affecting overall performance.

2. Screen Mirroring with AirPlay

If your car’s infotainment system supports AirPlay or screen mirroring, you can mirror your iPhone’s display to watch YouTube videos on your car screen.

Steps:

• Step 1: Ensure your iPhone and car’s infotainment system are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.

• Step 2: On your iPhone, swipe down to access the Control Center.

• Step 3: Tap the Screen Mirroring button and select your car’s AirPlay-compatible display.

• Step 4: Open the YouTube app on your iPhone and start playing a video.

• Step 5: The video will be mirrored to your car’s screen.

Pros:

• No need for jailbreaking or third-party apps.

• Simple to set up if your car supports AirPlay or mirroring.

• Free to use, as it relies on built-in iPhone features.

Cons:

• Lag or buffering: Mirroring may cause lag or reduced video quality.

• Stability issues: The connection may occasionally drop, especially at high speeds or with weak Wi-Fi.

• Safety concern: This method can be distracting, so it should only be used when the car is parked.

3. Using an External Streaming Device

For cars with HDMI or external input ports, you can use a device like Chromecast or an HDMI adapter to stream YouTube to the car’s screen.

Steps:

• Step 1: Purchase a compatible streaming device like Chromecast, Roku, or an HDMI adapter.

• Step 2: Plug the device into your car’s display input (e.g., HDMI or USB port).

• Step 3: On your iPhone, connect to the streaming device using the corresponding app (e.g., the Chromecast app or AirScreen for mirroring).

• Step 4: Open YouTube on your iPhone and cast or mirror the video to the car’s display.

• Step 5: Play your video directly through the external device.

Pros:

• Works well with any car that has a compatible HDMI or USB input port.

• No need for jailbreaking or modifying the iPhone.

• Reliable streaming quality (especially with Chromecast or similar devices).

Cons:

• Requires purchasing additional hardware (streaming device or adapter).

• May be more complex to set up than other methods.

• Can only be used when the car is parked or stationary.

4. YouTube on Apple CarPlay Without Jailbreak (Using Web-based Solutions)

If you want to watch YouTube on CarPlay without jailbreaking your device, you can use a web-based workaround that involves using CarPlay’s "WebView" feature. While this isn't officially supported by Apple, it allows you to access YouTube via the browser interface. Note that this method works only when your car is parked and should not be attempted while driving.

Steps:

• Step 1: Download and install a third-party app like WebBrowser for CarPlay or CarPlay Web from the App Store. These apps enable you to browse the internet on CarPlay's screen, bypassing the standard CarPlay restrictions.

• Step 2: Open the app on your CarPlay interface.

• Step 3: Use the browser within the app to navigate to www.youtube.com.

• Step 4: Log into your YouTube account if desired, and start watching videos.

Pros:

• No need to jailbreak your iPhone.

• Uses CarPlay’s existing interface to browse and stream content.

• Simple to set up and use.

Cons:

• Limited functionality: While this method lets you access YouTube, it’s not as polished as native YouTube apps.

• The web-based interface may not be optimized for CarPlay screens, leading to usability issues.

• Safety: Just like with other methods, it should only be used when parked, as it could be a distraction while driving.

How to Choose the Best CarPlay Screens?

When choosing the best CarPlay screen for watching YouTube, consider the following key factors:

Screen Size and Resolution

Look for a screen that provides clear visuals with a high resolution to enhance the YouTube viewing experience. Larger screens, such as 7 or 9 inches, often provide a better experience.

Carpuride W901 Pro car stereo portable Apple CarPlay offers a 9-inch HD IPS capacitive touchscreen, making it ideal for users who prefer a larger display for easy viewing in the car.

Connectivity Options

Check for wireless and wired connectivity to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Wireless connections add convenience by allowing you to connect your smartphone seamlessly without cables.

Carpuride W702 Apple CarPlay for motorcycles supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring smooth, hassle-free connectivity with your smartphone.

Compatibility

Ensure the CarPlay screen is compatible with your vehicle and devices, including support for both iOS and Android.

Ease of Installation

Look for a CarPlay screen and motorcycle radio screen that can be easily installed without complex wiring, as some screens offer dashboard mounts or windshield attachments.

Additional Features

Extra features such as screen mirroring, Bluetooth connectivity, multimedia playback (USB or TF card), and built-in speakers can enhance versatility and the overall viewing experience.

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