A few days ago, globally popular messaging app WhatsApp began rolling out an update (version 2.18.20) to its major supported app platforms that added support for Apple CarPlay, becoming the first major third party service of its kind to support the in-car interface.
Upon pairing with a CarPlay-compatible infotainment system, users will now be able to interact with the app through their vehicle’s dashboard touchscreen, looking and operating in much the same as the default Messages app works.
In terms of functionality, the new app compatibility brings many of the most used features to a more driver-friendly UI such as viewing unread messages and having them read back by Siri, which is also used for recording or dictating speech-to-text responses.
Given the restrictions that Apple puts in place for apps working within CarPlay, however, it does means that the initial WhatsApp version does have some glaring limitations, such as not being able to scroll through a your list of messages.
In this regard, Android Auto’s more lax policy on app functionality does mean that the in-car experience better mimics that within the smartphone itself, but also encourages more third party services building in support for the platform.
With their first third party messaging platform adding communication functionality alongside the stock Messages app within CarPlay, perhaps Apple will endeavour to adapt their software to better accommodate the needs of app developers, giving more incentive to other services to follow WhatsApp’s lead.
In 2018, more and more automakers are building in compatibility for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with brands such as Hyundai, Ford, and Volkswagen offering them even in some entry-level variants. Meanwhile, Mazda has expressed their openness to embracing the platform while Toyota has recently announced it’s started to add the feature to a number of models starting with the all-new Avalon sedan.