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Are you the owner of a Volvo model equipped with over-the-air updates? For some time now, automakers have been using OTA updates to fix bugs or add features to their vehicles. Instead of traveling to a dealership, owners can just download something online from home. Now, many Volvo models just got Apple CarPlay. The infotainment software will continue rolling out to models that don’t have it yet if your vehicle qualifies.

Volvo is rolling out Apple CarPlay to owners

2022 Kia EV6 Apple CarPlay. It's one of the most essential pieces of an infotainment system.
2022 Kia EV6 center screen showing Apple CarPlay connected | Kia

According to iMore, Volvo is officially rolling out Apple CarPlay to owners in fourteen markets. Moreover, this includes over 200,000 vehicles that qualify for the update. Those receiving the integration can get it through an over-the-air update, which will download the new software directly into your car. Volvo is passionate about using over-the-air updates to improve owners’ experiences after purchasing a vehicle.

“Through over-the-air updates, we can make sure that our customers can enjoy new features quickly and easily. It also means that a new Volvo car is no longer at its finest as it rolls off the factory floor, but keeps improving as we launch additional updates.”

Sanela Ibrovic, Head of Connected Experience at Volvo

Many automakers are using the same method going forward. For simple infotainment changes or fixes, it is the most efficient way. Not only does it save customers time going into a dealer or mechanic, but it saves the automaker’s locations time and resources by preventing them from having to perform maintenance. Furthermore, technology advances faster than most people can buy a new car. As a result, it’s helpful to receive OTA updates, so your vehicle will be as up-to-date with technology as your phone.

Which models are getting Apple CarPlay?

A 2023 Volvo C40 Recharge electric compact SUV model in Fjord Blue. Many Volvo vehicles are getting Apple CarPlay via an over-the-air update.
2023 Volvo C40 Recharge in Fjord Blue | Volvo Car Corporation

As a Volvo owner, you might be unsure whether or not you’ll get the new feature. Only specific models will receive the update. According to iMore, Volvo has not clearly stated which years and models are receiving the CarPlay update. However, the feature is coming to every car with Google built-in already. If your Volvo is running on Android Automotive, it will be able to receive the Apple CarPlay update.

Owners of iPhones and Volvos can rejoice as your phone is finally compatible with your car. Vehicles without Android Automotive built-in likely can’t handle Apple CarPlay with the basic infotainment system. CarPlay is one of the most popular pieces of infotainment tech in vehicles everywhere. Basically, it turns your car’s screen into your iPhone, with basically all the same functions.

Do you need Apple CarPlay?

First, Apple recently announced a new generation of CarPlay. It hopes to bring the updated, improved version to vehicles by 2023. Volvo hasn’t explicitly stated it, but the automaker could give owners the updated version with an OTA update. While the functionality isn’t essential, it’s convenient and more accessible than many standard systems.

For example, Apple CarPlay allows owners to make calls, send and receive texts, listen to music, receive turn-by-turn directions, and more. It eliminates the need for factory navigation in your vehicle, as long as you have Google Maps, Apple Maps, Waze, or another GPS app on your iPhone.

In conclusion, many Volvo owners are getting Apple CarPlay for the first time. If your vehicle runs on the Android Automotive operating system, the over-the-air update should hit your vehicle soon. With it comes the enhanced ability to use your phone through your car’s infotainment system. Are you one of those people, and are you excited to get Apple CarPlay in your Volvo?

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Section Editor - SUVs

Tim Harding

Having spent half a decade managing the reconditioning and marketing processes for upwards of 400 vehicles monthly, Tim is no stranger to the automotive industry. He has a deep understanding of the many different types of vehicles on the road today and brings to the table valuable insight into the industry itself.

Tim earned an Associate’s in English and a Bachelor’s in Business Administration with a Marketing specialization from Ashford University. Tim joined MotorBiscuit as an Autos Writer in 2021, and his work can also be seen at Gamepur, Overtime Heroics, and Pro Game Guides.

Tim is most inspired by the constantly changing automotive industry. He looks forward to a future when cars, particularly electric vehicles, look and operate completely differently than they do today. Tim’s content draws on this inspiration while also providing MotorBiscuit readers with useful consumer advice.