autoevolution
 

Apple CarPlay Now Available in Volvo XC90, Can Also Be Retrofitted

Volvo has joined the ever-increasing list of automakers that offer Apple CarPlay through their infotainment systems. It's part of a suite of features on the XC90 flagship SUV that also covers Pandora, Yelp and other applications.
Apple CarPlay Now Available in Volvo XC90, Can Also Be Retrofitted 1 photo
Photo: Volvo
CarPlay enables you to interact with the features of your iPhone through the XC90's console. Volvo's system is one of the better ones, as when we tested it, this screen was the closest to mirroring how a tablet works.

Another thing we like about the way Volvo integrated CarPlay is that its large screen left room for the normal car features to be displayed alongside those of the phone. These include climate control, heating and ventilation for the seats.

This means the driver doesn't have to jump in and out of the CarPlay application, saving time and keeping his eyes on the road most of the time.

“The Apple CarPlay experience enhances the award-winning user interface already available on the XC90 and just announced S90 sedan,” said Lex Kerssemakers, President and CEO of Volvo Cars of North America. “The Sensus Connect touchscreen gives us the flexibility to update software and add features to cars after they have been delivered to customers. This is an important part of our commitment to long-term customer satisfaction.”

Each application is tailored to the Volvo Sensus environment. It can be operated not only through the screen but also using the buttons on the steering wheel and voice commands. Owners will also receive constantly updated Here navigation maps, traffic information via Inrix, and improved speech input.

Did you buy the XC90 already? That doesn't mean you have to miss out on all these features. Owners who took delivery of the Volvo SUV before November 23, 2015, can schedule an appointment at their local Volvo retailer to receive a complimentary CarPlay update. For cars purchased after that, you have to pay $300 for the feature as an option. So it looks like the early birds really do get the worm.

Other applications such as Pandora, Yelp, Find Parking, updated navigation maps and traffic information come via updates for all Volvo XC90 customers… so don't ask us when they will arrive.

If you liked the article, please follow us:  Google News icon Google News Youtube Instagram X (Twitter)
About the author: Mihnea Radu
Mihnea Radu profile photo

Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida.
Full profile

 

Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?

You will only receive our top stories