Toyota Models with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

November 15th, 2021 by

Person Using Android Auto in Toyota Highlander

Unlock a seamless integration of your smartphone with your Toyota, as Android Auto and Apple CarPlay grace many of our models. However, for those with older vehicles lacking a compatible touch screen, models like the Toyota Tacoma or 4Runner boast the touch screen you desire. Even without a touch screen, you can effortlessly perform actions through voice commands by pressing the talk switch to activate Siri or Google Assistant.

These smartphone integration systems come at no extra cost; all you need is an iPhone 5 or newer or an Android device from 2014 or later to get connected. Simply download the Apple CarPlay app from the App Store or Android Auto on Google Play, connect your device to a compatible USB port or wirelessly on select models, and follow the straightforward installation instructions.

 

What Is Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?

These innovative systems empower drivers to seamlessly connect with their compatible devices, enabling the use of supported apps like Apple Music and Google Maps hands-free, utilizing voice commands or touchscreen inputs through Siri or Google Assistant.

From music streaming on Pandora and Spotify to navigation with Maps and Google Maps, these apps make every drive enjoyable. Even third-party messaging applications like iMessage or WhatsApp can find a home within this integration.

 

What’s the Difference Between Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?

Android Auto and Apple CarPlay offer similar functions, such as voice command features and hands-free call and text. While Android Auto operates when your phone is connected to the car, Apple CarPlay offers versatility with Bluetooth, USB cable, or built-in Wi-Fi. Android Auto’s driving-centric apps, including Google Maps, stand out, whereas Apple CarPlay apps are downloaded from the App Store and often optimized for Siri’s voice input.

While there are certainly many similarities between both systems, the main difference lies in hardware compatibility:

  • Apple CarPlay suits iPhone 5 and newer models, requiring a head unit with a touch screen and USB connectivity for older vehicles.
  • Android Auto pairs with Android phones running 4.1 or above, made in 2014 or later. Connect via USB or Bluetooth, or access some apps over Wi-Fi. Even without a touch screen, experience many features by simply commanding Google Maps, Spotify, WhatsApp, and more.

 

Which Toyota Models Have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?

Apple CarPlayToyota models compatible with Apple CarPlay:

 

Android AutoToyota models compatible with Android Auto:

 

Note: Android Auto is incompatible with the 2015-2017 Toyota Tacoma (you must get a package upgrade), 2018-2019 Toyota 4Runner, Toyota Supra, Toyota CH-R, and Toyota Sienna SE Plus model.

 

Get Connected Today!

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are two of the most popular smartphone integration systems on the market. They allow drivers to connect their compatible devices hands-free to keep the focus on the road ahead. You can control your favorite apps like Spotify or Waze through voice commands without ever touching your phone. Both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are safety systems that support native safety features like Siri Eyes Free mode for iPhones or Do Not Disturb mode on Androids – so no texting while driving. Both systems rely on USB connectivity paired with a touch screen display (or voice commands) for some functions. If you have any questions about connecting with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, please contact us at Beaver Toyota of Cumming today.

Posted in Toyota Model Features