Adding apps to Apple CarPlay lets you customize your driving setup with the tools you need most. From navigation to entertainment, knowing how to manage these apps ensures a smoother, more convenient experience on the road. In this guide, you’ll learn the steps to easily add compatible apps to your Apple CarPlay screen for car.

Quick Overview

First ensure they are installed on your iPhone. Then, go to your iPhone’s "Settings", select "General", and tap "CarPlay". Choose your car from the list and customize your CarPlay screen by adding or removing apps.

For CarPlay screens with Android Auto built-in, switch to Android Auto mode on the car's dashboard. Open the Android Market directly from the car’s screen, search for the app you want, and install it.

What Apps Are Compatible with Apple CarPlay?

Apple CarPlay focuses on safety and ease of use, which means only certain apps on your iPhone are supported. These include:

• Navigation apps like Apple Maps, Google Maps, and Waze.

• Music and podcast apps such as Apple Music, Spotify, and Audible.

• Messaging apps like iMessage and WhatsApp.

• Car-related apps for services like parking or EV charging stations.

• Audiobook apps like Audible and Apple Books.

• Radio and news apps such as TuneIn, NPR, and iHeartRadio.

• Voice assistant apps like Siri.

Before adding any apps, ensure they are compatible by checking Apple’s supported apps list or reviewing the app's details in the App Store.

How to Add Apps to CarPlay?

Adding apps to CarPlay is straightforward. There're two ways available and you can follow these steps:

Force iPhone Apps to CarPlay Screen

1. Install the App on Your iPhone

First, download and install the apps you want on your iPhone. Make sure the apps are compatible with CarPlay.

2. Connect Your iPhone to Your Car

Use a USB cable or wireless connection (if your car or CarPlay Screen supports wireless connection) to connect your iPhone to your car’s infotainment system.

3. Access iPhone Settings

On your iPhone, open Settings, scroll down, and tap on General.

4. Open the CarPlay Menu

In the General settings, select CarPlay. A list of available CarPlay-compatible vehicles will appear. Tap on the name of your car.

5. Customize CarPlay Layout

Once you’ve selected your car, a customizable layout of your CarPlay screen will appear. You’ll see a list of available apps at the bottom that are not yet added to your CarPlay screen.

6. Add or Rearrange Apps

Tap and hold the app icons to drag them into your desired position on the CarPlay screen. You can also drag apps from the included apps section to the "extra apps" section if you don't want them to display.

7. Save Changes

Your layout will be saved automatically. Disconnect your iPhone and the new arrangement, including any added apps, will be visible the next time you connect your phone to CarPlay.

How to Add Apps Directly on CarPlay Screen (For Android Auto Built-in Screens)

Some car’s infotainment systems like W901 Plus car dash touch screen supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with Android built-in, you can add apps directly on it. Follow these steps:

1. Switch to Android Auto Mode

On your car’s infotainment system, switch from Apple CarPlay to Android Auto mode.

2. Open the Android Market

Once in Android Auto mode, access the Google Play Store or the Android Market directly from the car’s dashboard screen.

3. Search for the Desired App

Using the search bar in the Android Market, type in the name of the app you want to install. You can install navigation, music, messaging, and other apps that are compatible with Android Auto.

4. Install the App

Tap the Install button for the app, and it will automatically download and install on the car's system.

How Do I Remove Apps from CarPlay?

Removing apps from your CarPlay interface is just as simple as adding them. Follow these steps:

1. Access iPhone Settings

On your iPhone, go to Settings, then tap General to access the CarPlay menu.

2. Select Your Car

Under the CarPlay menu, choose your car from the list of connected vehicles.

3. Open the CarPlay Layout

A screen displaying your current CarPlay layout will appear. You’ll see all the apps currently displayed on the CarPlay interface.

4. Remove Unwanted Apps

Scroll to the bottom where apps not currently displayed on CarPlay are listed. To remove an app from CarPlay, simply tap and drag the app icon from the CarPlay section to the "extra apps" section, which keeps the app off your CarPlay screen but doesn’t delete it from your phone.

5. Save Changes Automatically

Your changes will be saved automatically, and the next time you connect your iPhone to CarPlay, the apps you removed will no longer appear on the screen.

Conclusion

Customizing your CarPlay setup by adding and removing apps ensures a safer, more convenient driving experience and enjoy more fun in driving.

If you're looking to upgrade your car's tech, consider a wireless CarPlay screen from Carpuride. It’s an easy and budget-friendly way to bring portable Car Play functionality to older vehicles or enhance your current setup. Check them out and buy them now!

FAQs about Adding Apps to CarPlay

Why don't all my apps show up on Apple CarPlay?

Not all apps are compatible with CarPlay due to Apple’s strict safety and usability guidelines. Only apps that are designed for hands-free use and meet CarPlay’s functionality requirements will appear on your dashboard.

Can I add Netflix to CarPlay?

No, Netflix and other video streaming services are not supported on CarPlay. Apple restricts apps that could distract drivers, so apps like Netflix cannot be added or used while driving to ensure safety. However, if you’re using Android Auto with a built-in Android system, you may be able to watch Netflix on Android Auto by downloading it directly from the Apps Market.

Can you jailbreak CarPlay?

While it is technically possible to jailbreak your iPhone to unlock additional CarPlay features, it is not recommended. Jailbreaking can void your warranty, introduce security vulnerabilities, and lead to software instability, making your phone and car system less reliable.

Can I customize Apple CarPlay?

Yes, you can customize the layout of apps on your CarPlay screen through your iPhone’s settings. You can rearrange app icons and choose which apps are displayed on the CarPlay interface. However, customization is limited to the apps that are compatible with CarPlay.