These days, we face a dilemma.

On one hand, we want to stay connected, no matter where we are, no matter what we’re doing. Smartphones let us do that.

On the other hand, it’s dangerous to use a smartphone while driving. Getting distracted behind the wheel is never a good idea, and it can put you and others at risk.

Hyundai has hit on a solution to this dilemma by partnering with the maker of the world’s most popular smartphone, Apple. CarPlay™ is a new feature that allows drivers to interface safely with their iPhone® while behind the wheel.

Take a few moments to learn about using Apple CarPlay™ in your new Hyundai.

As Easy as Using Your Head Unit

Getting started with Apple CarPlay couldn’t be simpler. Just plug your iPhone in via your Hyundai’s USB port. Now it’s ready.

Once your phone is plugged in, you can set it down and forget about picking it up again while you’re behind the wheel. Everything you need is accessible via your car’s head unit. You should see your Hyundai’s touchscreen interface change to the familiar iOS that you’re used to.

There are 3 major features you can use with CarPlay.

Calls and Messages
Now your phone and text messages are at your fingertips without having to look down at a separate device. You don’t even have to take your hands off the wheel. With the voice command button, you can speak directly to Siri who can read out messages, take dictation on replies, and place phone calls. You can even listen to voicemail.

Navigation

CarPlay also gives you full access to Apple Maps in a format suited to your Hyundai’s touchscreen. Again, you can just tell Siri where you want to go. In response, you’ll get turn-by-turn directions as well as traffic conditions and an estimated time of arrival. Siri can even help you make it to work on time by suggesting an alternate route if traffic looks heavy. CarPlay will also recommend likely destinations based on recent trips.

Music and More

It wouldn’t be an iPhone if it wasn’t loaded with your favorite songs and playlists. CarPlay gives you access to all of this behind the wheel, arranged and displayed in an intuitive manner. You can also ask Siri to play music by artist, album, or genre. If you’re more of a podcast or audiobook person, you’re in luck. CarPlay can grab those, too.

That’s just the beginning of what CarPlay will let you do with your phone. There are other supported apps that are appropriate for the road, and you can find more information on the official Apple webpage.

Which Hyundai cars with Apple CarPlay are available now?

Hyundai is excited to be one of the first manufacturers to offer support for Apple CarPlay. Currently, the 2017 Hyundai Elantra supports this intuitive and convenient new technology. There is no separate charge required to use this interface in a new Elantra so long as the vehicle is equipped with Hyundai Display Audio or navigation.

CarPlay also pairs nicely with the spirit of safety within the Elantra, a car that is available with Automatic Emergency Braking and other features worth learning about.

Eventually, Apple CarPlay will be supported on most Hyundai models, and you can check back often to learn which new cars are compatible. The system works on iPhone 5 devices and newer that are running iOS 7.1 or higher.

Apple CarPlay provides a seamless integration between car and phone that is a big step toward safer driving. Blending convenience, intuitive controls, and familiarity allows you to keep your attention where it belongs: on the road ahead.