Infotainment System: Apple CarPlay & Android Auto

Ashton McCullough • October 4, 2021

Your car is your second home. American drivers spend an average of more than 17,600 minutes behind the wheel each year, Or about 293 hours. It should be a place where you can relax and enjoy your drive. The infotainment system allows you to do just that. It is a screen with a touchscreen display, so you can easily control your music, apps, and navigation without taking your eyes off the road.

Apple CarPlay

Apple CarPlay is a system that brings the iPhone's user interface to the dashboard of your car. It provides a way to safely and easily access your iPhone apps, contacts, and messages from the car's display, without taking your eyes off the road. The best thing about Apple CarPlay is that it integrates seamlessly with your car. For example, you can ask Siri to start playing a song from your favorite music app and have it automatically play through your car's speakers. If you get a phone call, CarPlay displays the caller's name or number and you can answer or decline the call with a touch of a button. you can also send and receive messages on your car's display, using either voice commands or Siri.


Apple CarPlay has a sleek, simplified interface that gives you quick access to your most important features. since CarPlay is designed specifically for in-car use, it's easy to use while driving. You can operate CarPlay with voice commands or by tapping the touch screen. Plus, you can even swipe to control different apps. There are a variety of apps such as navigation, Parking,  media,  weather, and customizable vehicle settings to choose from. 


Android Auto

Android Auto similar to Apple CarPlay allows drivers to have their Android phones interact with their car with a wide range of features. It integrates the driver's phone with the car's audio system, navigation system, and more. Android Auto features include: -Connectivity: drivers can connect their phone to the car and use Android Auto on the infotainment screen. - Voice controls: drivers can use voice commands to control the phone while they are driving. - Notifications: drivers can get text messages, emails, and other notifications on the infotainment screen. - Maps: drivers can use Google Maps on the screen to find directions and get directions. - Phone calls: drivers can make and receive phone calls through the car's speakers. - Music: drivers can listen to music through the car's speakers or through the phone. - Apps: drivers can download and use a variety of apps and use them on the infotainment screen. - Media: drivers can watch videos, listen to podcasts, and more. It also has Google Assistant, which is the company's artificial intelligence system. This means that drivers can ask questions and get answers in a conversational tone. The Google Assistant is always learning, so it will get better the more it's used.


Whether you’re on a road trip, running errands, or just cruising around town, it’s great to have these platforms and know how they can be utilized. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are compatible with most of the newer car models. If your car doesn’t support these platforms you can buy and install third-party stereo units that suit your needs. 

By Ashton McCullough June 22, 2025
The best airports around the world are redefining what it means to be “in transit,” turning layovers into wellness retreats, shopping sprees, and culinary escapades. From gardens under glass domes to chauffeur-driven tarmac rides, these airports create an atmosphere that rivals five-star hotels. Whether you’re arriving early to unwind or simply passing through, these airports offer services and design that make every moment feel indulgent. Whether you're after an immersive garden, or simply a quiet corner with great food, there's an airport here to elevate your journey. Let’s dive into the top terminals that transform airports from waypoints into destinations.
By Ashton McCullough June 13, 2025
Sometimes, it’s about slowing down and recalibrating breathing deeply, moving mindfully, and giving yourself the space to feel good again. Across the globe, a new class of wellness hotels is redefining what it means to travel well. These aren’t just places to sleep, they’re immersive sanctuaries where everything is designed around balance, restoration, and intentional living.
By Ashton McCullough June 2, 2025
You don’t need a private jet or a members-only resort to experience coastal calm and barefoot luxury. Around the world, there are places where the beach is never far, the crowds are minimal, and the energy is just right. Think beach bars with hammocks, quiet walks that lead to waterfalls, and evenings that start with grilled seafood and end with stargazing. These aren’t places to get lost. they’re places to land softly. Whether you're traveling solo or with company, these coastal gems feel like a deep breath in motion.
By Ashton McCullough May 6, 2025
There’s something timeless about a Southern road trip. The kind where the journey matters just as much as the destination. It is not just about covering miles but about uncovering the character of every small town and stretch of highway along the way. Whether you're craving nature, culture, or a taste of small-town charm, the South offers scenic routes filled with personality and warmth. These five drives are more than just roads—they are windows into the heart of the region.
By Ashton McCullough March 10, 2025
Urban design is evolving and it’s doing so at street level. Cities around the world are rethinking how people move, and it's not just about getting from point A to B. It's about building communities around walkability, accessibility, and freedom of choice. The “last block”, that final leg of your daily trip is becoming a central focus for urban planners. Wider sidewalks, curb-level bike lanes, and smart parking for e-scooters and bikes are replacing outdated infrastructure that once prioritized cars. These changes are turning city streets into shared spaces where micromobility thrives.
By Ashton McCullough January 7, 2025
We all know the feeling: you arrive in a new city, scroll through endless activity suggestions, and still end up at the same overrated attractions. What if your trip was curated with experiences that reflect the heart of the place, not just the travel brochure version? That’s the promise of local gems the hidden corners and cultural hubs that locals love. These places offer more than just a stop; they give you a glimpse into the everyday rhythm of a destination. Whether it’s an underground art gallery, a street food stall with a loyal following, or a neighborhood jazz bar, these spots have stories worth uncovering. Uncovering those stories takes curiosity, not just a map.
By Ashton McCullough July 20, 2024
Planning a multi-destination vacation can be an exciting yet complex endeavor, offering the thrill of exploring multiple places within a single trip and making the most of your travel time by experiencing diverse cultures, cuisines, and landscapes. However, the logistics can be daunting, so this guide will walk you through the essential steps to ensure your multi-destination vacation is well-organized, enjoyable, and memorable. Start by defining your travel goals, such as exploring historical sites, indulging in culinary experiences, relaxing on beaches, or going on adventurous treks. Knowing your priorities will help you choose destinations that align with your interests and ensure you have a fulfilling trip.
By Ashton McCullough July 8, 2024
The rapid evolution of urban transportation has been significantly influenced by the emergence of micromobility services, such as bike-sharing and electric scooters. These innovations have not only changed how people move around cities but have also been greatly enhanced by technological advancements.
By Ashton McCullough December 22, 2023
National parks in the United States are unparalleled in their ability to showcase the country’s most breathtaking and diverse landscapes. These protected areas offer an extraordinary range of natural wonders, from the dramatic geysers of Yellowstone to the majestic granite cliffs of Yosemite. Each park provides unique opportunities to connect with nature, explore vast wildernesses, and experience the awe-inspiring beauty that defines America's natural heritage. Here are some of the top national parks in the USA that every nature lover should visit.
By Ashton McCullough August 11, 2023
In a hospitality landscape often dominated by uniformity, boutique hotels emerge as exquisite gems that redefine the art of accommodation. Unlike regular hotels, these distinct establishments offer a deeply personalized and enchanting experience that is tailored to the discerning traveler. This article delves into the captivating world of boutique hotels, exploring how they stand apart from regular hotels and showcasing iconic examples across Europe, the United States, and serene island escapes. As fall approaches, we also present a curated selection of boutique hotels to consider for a unique autumn getaway.
More Posts