Tag: CarPlay

  • iOS 26.4 Update: CarPlay Users May Soon Watch Videos in Cars

    iOS 26.4 Update: CarPlay Users May Soon Watch Videos in Cars

    Key Takeaways

    1. Upcoming iOS 26.4 update may include video playback for Apple’s CarPlay.
    2. Apple TV integration could allow users to watch videos directly on car displays.
    3. Video playback will only be available when the vehicle is parked for safety reasons.
    4. Apple encourages developers to support CarPlay with AirPlay video features.
    5. Automakers will need to activate video playback, meaning it may not be available in all vehicles.

    Drivers might soon find a new way to enjoy entertainment while on the road, with the upcoming update to Apple’s CarPlay.

    Video Playback Coming Soon

    Rumor has it that video playback will be included with the release of iOS 26.4. Aaron Perris on X shared a series of code snippets that suggest Apple TV could be integrated into CarPlay, indicating that users may soon be able to watch videos directly on their car display. Similarly, 9to5Mac discovered code that mentioned video playback alongside features like climate controls, notifications, and a “TV App,” likely referring to Apple TV.

    Apple’s Statement on Video Features

    Apple confirmed that video playback is indeed on the way with some iteration of iOS 26. The company mentions on its CarPlay developer site that “AirPlay video in the car enables people to watch their favorit videos from iPhone right on their CarPlay display when they aren’t driving.” Apple is also urging developers to “integrate support for CarPlay with AirPlay video to enable this feature in your car.”

    Important Safety Considerations

    However, there’s a significant (and critical for safety) condition: Video playback on CarPlay will only work when the vehicle is parked. This ensures that distracted drivers won’t be able to watch TikTok videos during rush hour (which is definitely a positive). Yet, it also means that families and other passengers might not be able to use the car’s screen as a video player or infotainment hub to entertain themselves.

    Moreover, it seems that automakers will have the responsibility to activate this feature, which means that video playback may not be available in all cars when it launches.

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  • New CarPlay Feature in iOS 26 Brings Video Playback Support

    New CarPlay Feature in iOS 26 Brings Video Playback Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. Video playback on CarPlay screens will be allowed in iOS 26, but only when vehicles are parked.
    2. This is the first official allowance for video playback on CarPlay since its launch in 2014.
    3. Car manufacturers can choose whether to enable the new AirPlay video feature for specific models.
    4. iOS 26 will also include updates like new icon designs, appearance options, widget support, and improvements to Music and Messages.
    5. The availability of the AirPlay video option may vary by location, and car manufacturers need to integrate support before it becomes accessible.

    Apple is preparing to let apps show videos on connected CarPlay screens in iOS 26, but only when the vehicle is parked. This significant update to CarPlay comes after a prolonged period where Apple limited video playback. The new feature will be accessible through the “video in the car” menu, as mentioned on Apple’s developer site for CarPlay.

    First Time for Video Playback

    For the first time since CarPlay was introduced in 2014, video playback will be officially permitted. Each car manufacturer will have the choice to enable the AirPlay video feature on specific car models or not. Alongside this, Apple is making substantial changes to CarPlay in iOS 26, including new icon designs, appearance options, widget support, and enhancements to Music and Messages.

    Enhanced Entertainment Experience

    Cars with CarPlay provide drivers and passengers with entertainment options that can be better than what standard infotainment systems offer. However, some electric vehicle manufacturers have competing features; for instance, Tesla has a Theater app that allows users to watch videos from platforms like Netflix, Hulu, YouTube, and Twitch on the dashboard display when parked.

    Apple hasn’t released more specifics or images regarding the new AirPlay video option, and it won’t be available right away since car manufacturers need to integrate support for it first, according to Apple. Users of both regular CarPlay and CarPlay Ultra should eventually get access to it. It’s important to keep in mind that the availability of this feature may vary based on your location.

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  • Rugged Tablet with 4 Speakers: Shower Radio & CarPlay System

    Rugged Tablet with 4 Speakers: Shower Radio & CarPlay System

    The Nomad is a tablet that’s crafted for many different uses. Primarily, it is advertised as a waterproof and sturdy tablet equipped with four speakers, making it a great choice for listening to music on the go. It also supports CarPlay, allowing it to serve not just for entertainment in the car, but also to show navigation details.

    Battery Life and Media Capability

    The manufacturer claims that for music playback, users can enjoy over 20 hours of runtime, while video playback can last more than 5 hours. With Android as the operating system, there are no restrictions on media formats or content. You can play media from internal storage or a microSD card, and it’s also possible to install apps from a variety of streaming services.

    Display and Performance

    The 8-inch touchscreen boasts an HD resolution and has a brightness of 900 cd/m². It is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 662 SoC. Adjusting the volume is simple, thanks to easily reachable buttons. There are different mounts available, including options for the shower or a cup holder.

    The Nomad is being offered at a starting price of $249 during its crowdfunding campaign and is expected to ship in February 2025. As is typical with crowdfunding projects, there is always some financial risk involved, though Kickstarter only charges backers if the funding goal is met. If you want something sooner, it might be a good idea to check out other CarPlay displays on Amazon, where some can be found at lower prices.

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