Best Apps to Use with Apple CarPlay
Apple CarPlay makes driving safer and smarter by bringing your iPhone apps to your car’s dashboard. The best CarPlay apps in 2024–2025 include Google Maps and Waze for navigation, Spotify and Apple Music for music, WhatsApp and iMessage for messaging, and Audible for audiobooks. Drivers also rely on apps like TuneIn for radio, Carrot Weather for forecasts, and Overcast for podcasts. In this guide, you’ll discover the top CarPlay apps, compare their features, and learn how they fit different driving needs—from daily commutes to long road trips.
Why Apple CarPlay Apps Enhance the Driving Experience
Driving while using your phone can be distracting and dangerous. CarPlay solves this by allowing you to connect your iPhone directly to your car’s infotainment system. The apps appear in a simplified interface designed for minimal distraction.
● Safety without hands
Siri lets you give voice commands while keeping your eyes on the road.
● Seamless sync
Messages, calls, and playlists follow you into your car.
● Personalization
Choose the apps that fit your driving style.
Top Recommended Navigation Apps
✓ Apple Maps – The Default Choice
Apple Maps comes built into every iPhone and integrates beautifully with Siri. Over the years, Apple has improved accuracy, real-time traffic alerts, and lane guidance, making it a strong option for everyday driving.
✓ Google Maps – Feature-Rich and Reliable
Google Maps is still the go-to for many drivers. It offers precise directions, real-time traffic updates, multi-stop routing, and extensive location data. If you’re exploring a new city, Google Maps has your back.
✓ Waze – Community-Powered Navigation
Waze stands out for its crowd-sourced alerts. Drivers share live updates on traffic jams, accidents, and even speed traps. It's great for people who want to save time and not be surprised when driving.
Best Music and Audio Apps
✓ Apple Music – Perfect for iPhone Users
Apple Music syncs seamlessly with your iPhone library. It supports lossless and spatial audio for a premium experience.
✓ Spotify – Global Music Leader
Spotify is the most popular choice worldwide. It’s ideal for discovering new music with its algorithm-based playlists. Plus, it combines podcasts and music into one platform.
✓ Pandora and iHeartRadio – Variety for Radio Lovers
If you love the unpredictability of radio, Pandora and iHeartRadio are excellent. They offer customizable stations, live radio, and curated playlists.
Messaging and Communication Apps
✓ iMessage & SMS via Siri
CarPlay integrates natively with iMessage and SMS. Simply ask Siri to read or send messages without touching your phone.
✓ WhatsApp – Popular Choice Worldwide
WhatsApp’s CarPlay support lets you send and receive texts, voice messages, and even make calls. It’s widely used internationally, making it a must-have.
✓ Telegram & Other Secure Options
While not as mainstream, Telegram offers privacy-focused communication with CarPlay compatibility. It’s ideal if secure messaging is your priority.
Best Podcast and Audiobook Apps
✓ Apple Podcasts
Apple’s native podcast app makes it easy to continue listening across your devices.
✓ Audible
For audiobook lovers, Audible is unmatched. Long road trips become more enjoyable with access to thousands of titles offline.
✓ Overcast
Overcast is a fan favorite thanks to smart speed and voice boost—perfect for maximizing listening during short drives.
News and Information Apps
✓ NPR One & BBC Sounds
Stay updated with trusted news sources like NPR and BBC. Both apps deliver daily briefings and live coverage.
✓ TuneIn Radio
TuneIn offers global radio stations, talk shows, and sports broadcasts—ideal for anyone who wants variety beyond local stations.
Utility and Productivity Apps
✓ Calendar Integration
CarPlay lets you check upcoming events with Siri, ensuring you never miss an appointment.
✓ Reminder and Note Apps
Capture tasks or thoughts safely using voice commands. It's like having a helper in your automobile.
✓ Weather Apps
Get quick forecasts before you hit the highway—especially useful for long drives.
Comparing Features of CarPlay-Compatible Apps
Not all apps are created equal. Here are the main factors to consider:
● Ease of Use
A simple interface is crucial when driving.
● Voice Command Compatibility
Apps that work well with Siri are safer.
● Offline Access
Useful for areas with poor signal.
● Cost
Some apps are free, while others require a subscription.
User Reviews and Real Experiences
Drivers worldwide share their experiences with CarPlay apps:
● Many prefer Google Maps for its accuracy in unfamiliar areas.
● Spotify often wins for its balance of music and podcasts.
● People who desire real-time updates like Waze.
Discovering New Apps for CarPlay
CarPlay’s ecosystem is growing fast. New categories are emerging:
● EV charging apps that help locate charging stations.
● Parking apps for finding and paying for spaces.
● Food delivery integrations for pickups on the go.
Choosing the Right Apps for Your Driving Style
● For daily commuters
Waze, Spotify, iMessage.
● For long-distance travelers
Google Maps, Audible, NPR One.
● For family drivers
Apple Maps, Apple Music, WhatsApp.
How to Set Up and Use Apps on Apple CarPlay
● Connect your iPhone via USB or wireless CarPlay.
● Open iPhone settings → General → CarPlay → Select your vehicle.
● Add or remove apps from the dashboard.
Benefits Beyond Apps – Upgrading Your CarPlay System
If your car’s built-in system feels limited, upgrading to an aftermarket CarPlay screen can make a world of difference. Systems like Tesla-style displays provide bigger screens, smoother performance, and extra features. You can learn more in this detailed guide on the features and benefits of Apple CarPlay.
For those looking to modernize older vehicles, you can also explore advanced CarPlay upgrade options that bring the latest tech to your dashboard.
Conclusion
Apple CarPlay is more than just an extension of your iPhone—it’s a driving companion that keeps you connected, entertained, and safe. From navigation apps like Google Maps and Waze to entertainment hubs like Spotify and Audible, the best apps depend on your lifestyle and driving habits.
Try a mix of apps, test what works best for your routine, and make every drive smarter and more enjoyable.
FAQs for Apple CarPlay Apps
1. What are the best CarPlay applications going into 2024 and 2025?
The most recommended CarPlay apps for 2024–2025 include Google Maps and Waze for navigation, Spotify and Apple Music for entertainment, and WhatsApp for communication. These remain the top choices based on reliability and user reviews.
2. What are the finest Apple CarPlay apps for people who have an iPhone?
iPhone users get the smoothest experience with Apple Music, iMessage, and Apple Maps since they are natively integrated. However, adding apps like Spotify, WhatsApp, and Audible expands your options for music, messaging, and audiobooks.
3. Are there free CarPlay apps worth using?
Yes, several free apps work great with CarPlay. Google Maps, Waze, Spotify’s free tier, and WhatsApp all offer excellent functionality without requiring a subscription.
4. What are the best CarPlay navigation apps?
The best navigation apps for Apple CarPlay are Google Maps for accurate directions, Waze for real-time crowd updates, and Apple Maps for seamless iOS integration. Many drivers use a mix depending on trip type.
5. Which weather apps work best with CarPlay?
Apps like Weatherology and Carrot Weather give real-time updates through CarPlay. They’re especially useful for planning long trips and avoiding dangerous driving conditions.
6. Are there region-specific CarPlay apps like in Australia or the UK?
Yes, CarPlay supports region-based apps. For example, in Australia, TuneIn and ABC Listen are popular, while in the UK, BBC Sounds and local navigation apps integrate well with CarPlay.
7. What’s the difference between Apple CarPlay apps in 2024 vs. older years?
Newer CarPlay apps (2024–2025) are more optimized for larger aftermarket screens, support better Siri integration, and often include EV-related tools like charging station locators, which weren’t common in older versions.
8. Which radio apps work best with Apple CarPlay?
For radio lovers, iHeartRadio, TuneIn, and Pandora are among the best CarPlay-compatible radio apps. They give people all over the world access to live stations, podcasts, and genre-based stations.
9. Can Android CarPlay alternatives offer the same apps?
Many popular apps like Spotify, Google Maps, and Waze are available on both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, iMessage and Apple Music remain exclusive to iOS.
10. Which CarPlay apps do most drivers recommend overall?
Based on user reviews, drivers consistently recommend Google Maps for navigation, Spotify for music, WhatsApp for communication, and Audible for audiobooks. These cover all essential needs while driving.