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How to Make Apple CarPlay Wireless: The Complete Guide for 2025

how to make apple carplay wireless

1. Introduction: Why Wireless CarPlay is a Must-Have Feature for 2025

Apple CarPlay has become a standard feature in most modern vehicles, allowing drivers to access navigation, music, and messages easily from their iPhone.

 

However, traditional wired CarPlay requires a USB cable, which can be cumbersome and cause cable clutter.

 

Wireless CarPlay changes all that by allowing your iPhone to connect to your car’s infotainment system wirelessly via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. For those who already have CarPlay but still use a wired connection, the question of how to make Apple CarPlay wireless becomes crucial.

 

This guide will show you how to easily upgrade your wired CarPlay system to wireless and explain why wireless CarPlay is a must-have feature in 2025.

2. Wireless CarPlay vs Wired CarPlay: Why Should You Upgrade?

While both wireless and wired CarPlay provide the same basic functionality, there are several key differences that make wireless CarPlay the better option:

 

  • Convenience: Wireless CarPlay allows you to connect without plugging in a cable every time you enter the car. It connects automatically when you start the engine.
  • Cleaner Setup: Wireless CarPlay eliminates cable clutter, keeping your car interior neat and organized.
  • Less Interference: With wireless CarPlay, there are no concerns about unplugging or dealing with cables, making the connection more reliable.

Given these advantages, many car owners are looking to upgrade their wired CarPlay to wireless CarPlay for a more convenient and streamlined experience.

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3.Car Brands with Wireless Apple CarPlay

1. Luxury brands


BMW
Representative models:

All 3 Series (2021 models onwards)

5 Series, 7 Series (2020 models onwards)

X3, X5, X7 (2021 models onwards)

Note: The “wireless charging + Wi-Fi hotspot” kit is required, and some high-end models are standard.

 

Mercedes-Benz
Representative models:

C-Class (2022 models onwards, equipped with MBUX system)

E-Class, S-Class (2021 models onwards)

GLE, GLC (2023 models onwards)

Note: All series need to be equipped with the “MBUX Enhanced Navigation Package” to achieve wireless CarPlay.

 

Audi
Representative models:

A4, A6, A8 (2021 model, high-end models required)

Q5, Q7, Q8 (2022 model)

e-tron series (all models standard)

Note: only models equipped with MIB 3 infotainment system.

 

2. Mainstream joint venture brands


Toyota
Representative models:

Camry (2023 top model)

Highlander (2024 model, 12.3-inch large screen required)

Crown (2023 all models standard)

Note: Toyota wireless CarPlay is slow to spread, and is currently limited to some new models.

 

Honda
Representative models:

Accord (2023 model, EX-L and above)

CR-V (2024 hybrid version standard)

Pilot (2024 all models)

Note: The latest HondaLink system is required.

 

Ford

Representative models:

Mustang Mach-E (standard for all models)

F-150 (2023 high-end)

Explorer (2024 model, SYNC 4A system required)

Note: Ford prioritizes the promotion of wireless CarPlay in the electric vehicle field.

 

3. New energy brands


Tesla

Note: Tesla models do not support CarPlay and rely on the native system.

 

BYD

Representative models:

Han EV (2024 top-end)

Seal (supported by overseas version, domestic version requires adapter)

Note: Domestic models are more conservative in wireless CarPlay adaptation, while overseas versions are more open.

 

NIO

Representative models:

ET5, ET7 (2024 models, “Smart Connection Kit” required)

ES6, ES8 (2023 models and onwards)

Note: Functions will be gradually opened through OTA updates.

 

4. Korean and Japanese brands


Hyundai
Representative models:

Tucson (2024 models)

Palris (2023 top model)

IONIQ 5/6 (all models standard)

 

Kia
Representative models:

EV6 (all models standard)

Sorento (2024 models, 10.25-inch screen required)

 

Mazda
Representative models:

CX-50, CX-90 (2024 models)

MX-30 (overseas version only)

Note: Models before 2023 need to be enabled via a wireless CarPlay adapter.

 

5. Self-owned brands


Geely
Representative models:

Xingyue L (2024 top model)

Zeekr 001 (optional car Wi-Fi module required)

 

Great Wall
Representative models:

Tank 500 Hi4-T (2024 model)

Ola Lightning Cat (overseas version supported)

4. How to Make Apple CarPlay Wireless: Simple Upgrade Steps

Upgrading from wired CarPlay to wireless CarPlay is straightforward. Here’s what you need to do:


1.Check if Your Car Supports CarPlay: Ensure that your vehicle supports CarPlay. If your car has CarPlay but still uses a wired connection, you can upgrade to wireless CarPlay.


2.Get the Right Wireless CarPlay Adapter: Purchase a reliable wireless CarPlay adapter. The adapter connects to your car’s USB port and pairs with your iPhone via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.


3.Install the Wireless CarPlay Adapter: Simply plug the adapter into your car’s USB port. Pair it with your iPhone via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.


4.Enjoy Wireless CarPlay: Once paired, your iPhone will automatically connect to your car’s infotainment system, allowing you to enjoy the convenience of wireless CarPlay.

5.Conclusion: Upgrade Now and Enjoy Wireless CarPlay

Upgrading from wired to wireless CarPlay is an easy way to improve your driving experience. Wireless CarPlay offers convenience, eliminates cable clutter, and enhances overall connectivity.

 

As a professional supplier focusing on B2B, Novacruze provides high-quality wireless CarPlay adapters to help enterprises, retailers and wholesalers provide customers with the best wireless solutions.Contact novacruze sales manager immediately: Ken

Let Novacruze's one-stop shopping model spread across retailers and wholesalers in every region. Before you start, reading the frequently asked questions will help you solve the final doubts.

If your vehicle is equipped with a factory-installed wired CarPlay system, then this product is compatible. This includes vehicles with both wired and wireless CarPlay connections. However, please note that this product is not compatible with vehicles that only have a wireless CarPlay connection.

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We have several products that may meet your needs, depending on your specific usage requirements.

1. For streaming video apps such as YouTube and Netflix, Our AI BOX support video and game playing in car , you can choose models of "CarPlay AI BOX" collection to meet your need:https://novacruze.com/products/ne-kof059b/

2. If your family uses both Android phones and iPhones, you may be interested in our CarPlay/Android Auto 2-in-1 Adapter. It can convert Wired Android Auto or CarPlay into Wireless:https://novacruze.com/products/carplay-adapter/

Please note that products with the same function may have different prices due to differences in chips and materials. If cost is a primary concern, you may want to consider the most cost-effective option. On the other hand, if you prioritize performance and appearance, you may want to consider a more expensive option.

No, it is not necessary to re-pair the adapter each time it is used. Once it has been properly set up, your phone will automatically connect to the adapter when your vehicle is started.

The adapter is equipped with both WiFi and Bluetooth hardware. It will connect to your phone via Bluetooth and send the WiFi credentials. Then the adapter will disconnect from the Bluetooth network and operate solely over WiFi.

Yes, this product is compatible with all iPhone models from the iPhone 6 (running iOS 10) to the iPhone 15 Pro Max.

Yes, it is possible to connect multiple phones to the adapter. The adapter will automatically connect to the last paired phone if it is present in the vehicle. If the last paired phone is not available, you can manually connect to the other phone.

1. Enable the Bluetooth and WiFi networks on your phone.

2. Make sure your phone is not connected to any other WiFi or Bluetooth networks and remove any hands-free connections from your phone and car system settings.

3. Plug the adapter into the CarPlay USB port.

4. Wait for the interface to appear on the screen.

5. On your phone, go to the list of Bluetooth devices and select the one with a name starting with AUTO-xx.

6. When prompted, select "Pair" on your phone.

7. Once connected, select "Use CarPlay" when the notification appears.

1. Connect your phone to the adapter and wait until CarPlay appears on the screen.

2. Open your web browser and enter the address 192.168.X.X.

3. If an update is available, click on it to begin the update process.

4. Wait until the update progress bar reaches 100%.

5. Once the update is complete and CarPlay reappears on the screen, the update process is finished.

The average connection time for the adapter will vary depending on your phone and car, but it typically takes between 5-15 seconds to establish a connection.

Generally, orders will be delivered within 10-15 business days. Please note that delivery time may vary depending on the shipping location and customer location. Factors such as season, weather and holidays may also affect delivery time.

Yes, upon successfully placing an order, you will receive a confirmation number. If you do not receive a confirmation number within 24 hours of placing your order, please contact us for assistance.

Sure. We have a 30-days return policy, which means you have 30 days after receiving your item to request a return.

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