Are you interested in building a CarPlay-compatible app but unsure where to start? All you need is to follow a structured development process that will make your app safe, functional, and meet Apple’s requirements.
In this guide, we’ll talk about 6 key steps to develop a CarPlay-compatible iOS app—an approach that helps developers create successful in-car experiences. If you want to learn more about app development, check out the tips for hiring the right app developer to find out platforms, steps, and costs of employing an app developer for your project.
Let’s get started!
The CarPlay App Market Overview
CarPlay, Apple’s in-car infotainment system, was significantly adopted since its launch. As of 2024, over 80% of new vehicles sold worldwide support CarPlay. It’s also stated that the global connected cars market size is projected to reach more than $225 billion by 2027.
Here are several trends that shape the CarPlay app market:
- Car manufacturers’ integration. CarPlay adoption has become standard in many vehicle models; automakers like Ford, BMW, and Toyota fully support this technology. This trend is driven by consumer demand for seamless integration of their smartphones into their driving experience, which reduces the need to interact directly with the phone.
- User adoption. Millions of users worldwide rely on this system for navigation, communication, and entertainment, so the market for CarPlay apps grows.
What’s more, CarPlay supports various types of apps, all designed to improve the driving experience and minimize distractions. The most commonly developed apps for CarPlay fall into the following categories:
- Navigation apps. Navigation remains the most popular use of CarPlay, with apps like Apple Maps, Google Maps, and Waze are user favorites. These apps allow drivers to access real-time traffic information, turn-by-turn directions, and estimated arrival times, which makes navigation seamless and intuitive.
- Communication apps. Communication apps are essential for safe driving, as they offer hands-free options for texting, calling, and messaging. Apps like WhatsApp and Messenger allow drivers to stay connected without taking their eyes off the road, while Apple’s iMessage is seamlessly integrated into CarPlay.
- Audio and entertainment apps. Audio apps are another crucial category that offer access to streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, and Audible. Drivers can enjoy their favorite music, podcasts, and audiobooks that create an enjoyable in-car experience. These apps typically support voice commands via Siri, which allows drivers to control content safely.
- Vehicle-specific apps. Some car manufacturers also provide apps personalized to their vehicles, such as BMW Connected and FordPass, which allow drivers to monitor their vehicle’s performance, control car functions remotely, and schedule service appointments.
With CarPlay’s user base, there is a huge opportunity for developers to create innovative apps for the platform. Companies that offer mobile app development services are uniquely positioned to satisfy this growing demand and build tailored apps for automotive customers. From improved user interfaces to voice-command optimizations, the future of CarPlay apps has plenty of possibilities.
6 Steps to Develop a CarPlay-Compatible iOS App
The creation of a CarPlay-compatible iOS app requires detailed planning and adherence to Apple’s guidelines to guarantee that the app provides a safe and smooth experience for users. Below are 6 essential steps, which can guide you through the development process:
Step 1: Familiarize yourself with CarPlay guidelines
Before you start development, it’s important to familiarize yourself with Apple’s CarPlay Human Interface Guidelines. Apple sets stringent requirements to make sure that apps are safe to use while driving and focuses on simplicity, ease of use, and minimization of distractions. The guidelines dictate how apps should be designed to support hands-free and minimal interaction interfaces.
The key considerations are:
- Limited user interaction, All interactions should require minimal attention, which will avoid complex gestures or typing.
- Focus on audio and visual cues. CarPlay apps should prioritize voice interaction and visual prompts instead of text-heavy interfaces.
In addition, apps must adhere to technical requirements outlined in Apple’s CarPlay documentation, which will ensure compatibility with both the hardware and software environment in vehicles.
Step 2: Set up the CarPlay framework in Xcode
Once you’re familiar with the guidelines, the next step is to integrate CarPlay into your development project. Apple’s CarPlayKit framework is the foundation to build CarPlay-compatible apps.
Firstly, open your project in Xcode and integrate the CarPlay framework. Then select appropriate CarPlay templates, such as CPTemplateApplicationScene or CPMapTemplate, which will depend on the type of app you’re building (e.g., audio or navigation).
Set up CarPlayKit enables your app to interact with vehicle hardware, which allows features like navigation or audio playback to work smoothly in the CarPlay environment.
Moreover, make sure to test your integration throughout the process to identify any framework-related issues early.
Step 3: Develop your app’s core features
CarPlay apps are limited to certain categories approved by Apple: navigation, audio, and messaging. Each of these categories presents unique development challenges and requirements:
- Navigation apps must provide turn-by-turn directions and traffic updates. The UI should be easy to understand at a glance, which will minimize the driver’s need to interact with the screen.
- Audio apps focus on providing an intuitive way to control music, podcasts, or audiobooks with simple, clear controls.
- Messaging apps should enable users to send and receive messages and use voice commands without typing or complex gestures.
When you develop core features, it’s essential to design them with CarPlay’s UI limitations in mind. The driving environment is fundamentally different from mobile use cases, which means that screens need to be simple, clear, and distraction-free. We would recommend focusing on key functionalities like audio controls, navigation prompts, and messaging notifications in ways that are easily manageable while people are driving.
Step 4: Implement voice control and Siri shortcuts
To make sure drivers can interact with your app safely, integrate voice control and Siri Shortcuts. Voice commands are a primary interaction method for CarPlay users, as they allow hands-free operation.
Use SiriKit to implement voice commands that allow users to control core app functions like starting navigation or playing an audio file. Moreover, Siri shortcuts make it easier for users to initiate frequent tasks. For example, audio apps can offer shortcuts for resuming the last played track, while navigation apps can offer directions to saved locations.
Step 5: Test your app on CarPlay simulator and a real vehicle
Apple provides the CarPlay Simulator in Xcode, which allows you to test your app without needing a physical vehicle. Use the simulator to evaluate how your app behaves under different scenarios, such as receiving voice commands or interacting with the interface.
The simulator is a great starting point, however, you need to have real-world testing. Install the app on a device connected to a CarPlay-compatible car. Test key functions like navigation, messaging, or audio playback to secure smooth operation. Then verify that the app meets all safety and usability standards required by Apple.
This stage identifies any issues that may only surface in a real-world environment like connectivity problems or interface glitches.
Step 6: Submit your app to the app store
Before submission, make sure your app adheres to both the App Store guidelines and specific CarPlay requirements. Apple has tough approval processes for CarPlay apps, so be sure to double-check that all guidelines are met, especially those of user safety and minimal distractions. Also, complete functional, usability, and safety tests.
Then you can prepare your app for submission through App Store Connect, which provides relevant details like app metadata and screenshots.
Final Words
Overall, the development of a CarPlay-compatible iOS app involves 6 key steps; firstly, you figure out Apple’s CarPlay guidelines, then you integrate the CarPlay framework (CarPlayKit) in Xcode, and develop core features like navigation or audio.
You also should implement voice control and Siri shortcuts to guarantee hands-free operation. You will test the app both on Apple’s CarPlay simulator and in real vehicles to verify compatibility and safety.
Lastly, remember to make sure that your app meets App Store and CarPlay-specific guidelines before you submit it for approval.
