Apple’s CarPlay Wins Prestigious Award Against Stiff Competition

Last week, the well-known online automobile site Autoblog announced that Apple’s own CarPlay was the recipient of the technology of the year award because it “brings an experience that is easy to use and enhances the lives of consumers who use this product.” The award is aimed at highlighting some of the cutting-edge technology that is helping to shape the future of automobiles and the way consumers interact with them.

Apple CarPlay was in the running for the award alongside other finalists such as Audi Virtual Cockpit, Ford Sync 3, Google Android Auto, and others. But in the end, the Autoblog editorial staff and a guest judge from Engadget elected CarPlay as the winner.

But what is Apple CarPlay, you ask? CarPlay is a smart, new age technology that syncs up a consumer’s iPhone with their car to bring them iPhone capabilities right in the built-in display. Essentially, it seamlessly integrates iOS functionality right into your car. Think Siri, Apple Maps, Apple Music, phone, messages and more…all at your fingertips.

Apple CarPlay is a way in which Apple can bring all of its great features, apps, and tools into various car models. But there are also a number of third-party apps that work along with Apple CarPlay, too. Apps like Spotify, iHeartRadio, MLB.com At Bat, Audible, and others work along with CarPlay.

Although it was adopted sparingly upon launch, more and more automobile manufacturers are adding the feature to their new car models. As of late, top manufacturers like Chrysler, Jeep, Mercedes-Benz, and others will be featuring the tech in select car models. Currently, Apple CarPlay is supported by 21 major automobile manufacturers, and is available in 100 car models.

It should also be noted that, while Apple won for best Technology Of The Year, Tesla took home the Tech Car Of The Year award title. The pairing is quite ironic, given that Apple has been recruiting Tesla employees to work “Project Titan”, among other smaller automobile companies. So perhaps next year Apple will be able to take home both awards? Only time will tell.