Did Apple Rebrand 'iOS in the Car' to CarPlay? Here's a Preview About This Infotainment Feature

Joseph Henry, Tech Times 01 March 2024, 11:03 am

Ten years ago, Apple embarked on a journey to revolutionize in-car entertainment by introducing "iOS in the Car," a concept that would eventually evolve into the widely adopted CarPlay.

We seldom hear stories on how Apple's infotainment system transformed over the past decade. Finally, here's a quick preview of what happened previously.

How did 'iOS in the Car' begin?

(Photo: Sophia Stark from Unsplash)
CarPlay is Apple's iconic infotainment system for vehicle owners. It's now a mainstream feature in new cars, but little did we know that it previously operated under a different name known as "iOs in the Car."

According to 9to5Mac, it was in 2013, at the prestigious WWDC event, when Apple's Senior Vice President, Eddy Cue, unveiled "iOS in the Car" as a groundbreaking feature integrated into iOS 7.

With visionary zeal, Cue showcased a futuristic interface that promised to seamlessly integrate iPhone functionalities into car dashboards. Despite the initial excitement, the unveiled concept differed significantly from the eventual CarPlay we know today.

Design Overhaul: From Concept to Reality

The initial concept of "iOS in the Car" featured a lock screen-inspired interface adorned with a prominent clock and date display. However, practicality triumphed over novelty, leading to a redesign that embraced familiarity by adopting a grid of app icons reminiscent of the iPhone layout. Additionally, the placement of key elements, such as the virtual Home button and status bar, underwent strategic adjustments to enhance accessibility and user experience.

Here Comes Rebranded CarPlay

From "iOS in the Car," Apple decided to give the feature a new name. It was the current "CarPlay" that we know. The rechristened CarPlay made its debut alongside AirPlay, promising seamless connectivity between iPhones and compatible car models.

Despite a slow initial rollout, CarPlay swiftly gained traction, becoming a standard feature across a wide range of automobile brands.

Expansion and Accessibility

The democratization of CarPlay extended beyond factory-fitted systems, with aftermarket solutions like Pioneer offering upgrades for existing vehicles. This accessibility played a crucial role in popularizing CarPlay among consumers, providing an affordable alternative to purchasing new cars equipped with the feature.

Continued Innovation

Since its inception, CarPlay has undergone continuous refinement, with each iteration introducing enhancements to functionality and design. However, perhaps the most significant transformation occurred between the conceptual "iOS in the Car" showcased at WWDC 2013 and the official launch of CarPlay in iOS 7.1.

Looking ahead, the promise of next-generation CarPlay heralds further advancements in in-car technology, ensuring that Apple remains at the forefront of automotive innovation.

The evolution of CarPlay from its nascent stages as "iOS in the Car" to its current status as a ubiquitous infotainment solution reflects Apple's dedication to taking the driving experience to new heights.

As we celebrate a decade of CarPlay, we anticipate a future filled with groundbreaking developments that will continue to shape the automotive landscape for years to come.