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​Apple cuts the cord on CarPlay

At WWDC 2015, Apple officially announces that CarPlay is going wireless.

Antuan Goodwin Reviews Editor / Cars
Antuan Goodwin gained his automotive knowledge the old fashioned way, by turning wrenches in a driveway and picking up speeding tickets. From drivetrain tech and electrification to car audio installs and cabin tech, if it's on wheels, Antuan is knowledgeable.
Expertise Reviewing cars and car technology since 2008 focusing on electrification, driver assistance and infotainment Credentials
  • North American Car, Truck and SUV of the Year (NACTOY) Awards Juror
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Antuan Goodwin

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This story is part of WWDC 2022, CNET's complete coverage from and about Apple's annual developers conference.

During the keynote presentation at this morning's Worldwide Developers Conference, Apple announced that CarPlay is going wireless.

As part of its iOS 9 discussion, Apple stated that the next generation of its iOS mobile operating system that powers iPhone devices will bring with it changes to the CarPlay smartphone integration software for automobiles. CarPlay will now feature support for new resolutions, new and more flexible aspect ratios, and higher resolution displays. The next version of CarPlay will also feature the potential for tighter integration with its host vehicle and will be able to tap into automotive data and even control certain functions of the

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Apple WWDC 2015 keynote (photos)

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Apple is also cutting the requirement to plug in via Lightning connector. Currently, CarPlay users have to plug their devices into a USB port in the host vehicle via a Lightning cable to gain in-dash control of their smartphones. However, in future cars, iOS users will be able to get in car and connect without taking the phone out of pocket, with the only connection between the device and the auto being a wireless one, presumably Bluetooth, Wi-Fi or both.

According to industry insiders, concerns over bandwidth of Bluetooth wireless connections and handset battery life have, up until now, kept the first generation of CarPlay (and Android Auto) devices tethered to the car. Hopefully, Apple will address those concerns before wireless CarPlay goes live.

See all of today's WWDC news.