According to a new report, Apple plans to expand CarPlay's functionality to include control of key vehicle functions such as air conditioning, radio, speedometer, seats, and more.
The project, internally codenamed “IronHeart,” is still in its early stages, but it will see Apple working with automakers to expand CarPlay functionality and control key car functions, Bloomberg reported in the latest report. Aside from apps for music and navigation, CarPlay doesn't allow users to control any of the car's functions themselves. However, this new iPhone-based project aims to change that. The report states:
The company is working on technology that would allow access to features such as the climate control, speedometer, radio and seats, according to people familiar with the project. The initiative, known internally as "IronHeart," is still in its early stages and requires collaboration with automakers. IronHeart would take CarPlay a step further. The iPhone-based system would be able to access a range of controls, sensors and settings.
Apple's CarPlay strategy is similar to Home and Health offerings
The report lists various car functions that CarPlay could display in the future, including the interior and exterior temperature and humidity, the seats and armrests, the instrument cluster, and the controls for the car's built-in speakers. According to Bloomberg, Apple's CarPlay strategy is similar to that of its Home and Health offerings, where the company aggregates users' information into individual apps on the iPhone. With "IronHeart," CarPlay would be a more comprehensive system that would allow users to control their vehicle without having to switch between CarPlay and the car's control system. (Photo by hadrian / Bigstockphoto)
