Apple is already working on the evolution of CarPlay, the tech giant's interface that millions of drivers use in their cars to control music, get directions, make phone calls, listen to podcasts, and more.
According to Bloomberg, Apple wants to expand the range of use of CarPlay — which is currently available in more than 600 car models — and is already working on the “next step”.
Known internally as the “IronHert” project, this system can be seen as the natural evolution of CarPlay and will allow access to the climate control system, control the radio and all sound-related adjustments, display the temperature and humidity levels inside and from the outside, access information on the instrument panel (speedometer, counters, fuel levels, consumption…) and even adjust the electric seats. Everything “inside” CarPlay and always with the iPhone as the “centre piece”.
According to Bloomberg, this decision is related to the fact that many users have complained about having to leave CarPlay to access fundamental controls related to everything that involves the car, starting right away with the climate control. And this is a “problem” that the “IronHert” project wants to “attack”.
However, and taking into account the level of integration required for all these features to be available, it is to be expected that the amount of functions may vary from model to model, so cooperation with car manufacturers will be essential.
If confirmed, this technology (which has not yet been officially addressed by Apple), will be Apple's biggest advance in cars since 2014, when CarPlay was launched.