Volvo adds Apple CarPlay support to XC90 luxury SUV

Back in March of 2014, Volvo was promising support for Apple CarPlay in its vehicles. The wait to actually see that support has been long, though.
However, it’s finally coming to an end, as the manufacturer has confirmed that the first of its vehicles that supports Apple’s in-car system is now available. It’s the 2016 XC90 luxury SUV, and it features a 9-inch touchscreen panel in the center console for easy access. The top-half of the display is meant for other interactive elements through Volvo’s Sensus Connect, while the bottom half of the display is where CarPlay will be showcased.

There’s a button on the XC90’s steering wheel that can be pressed to access Siri, which will then allow the driver to transcribe messages, get directions, and more. One thing to note, though: To use CarPlay, Volvo XC90 owners will need to connect their iPhone directly to the system through the built-in Lightning port. Volvo says that it will support wireless CarPlay-connectivity at some point in the future.
For current owners of the XC90, the vehicle is eligible for Apple CarPlay now, so making a service appointment to add the feature through a software update is all that’s needed to get up and running.

[via CNET]

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