CarPlay has significantly improved its functionality, offering seamless integration with apps like Car Scanner and MyRadar on the Lightning touch screen. This enhanced integration allows for real-time vehicle diagnostics and weather monitoring while driving.
Hands-On Testing: Car Scanner and MyRadar in CarPlay
Testing revealed that both Car Scanner and MyRadar function flawlessly in CarPlay while the vehicle is in motion. Using MyRadar for weather updates with a moving current location indicator alongside Apple Maps for navigation proved to be a highly effective combination. However, the MyRadar map’s zoom level wasn’t ideal for street-level detail. Accessing other CarPlay apps, like Apple Maps, requires touching the “8 dots” icon and scrolling through the app list, a task best performed while stationary or by a passenger.
Connecting Car Scanner initially required pairing the OBDLink MX+ Bluetooth device with an iPhone before establishing a connection via the Lightning touch screen within the CarPlay interface. Interestingly, CarPlay didn’t automatically reconnect after a brief stop with the engine off. Reactivating CarPlay on the iPhone was necessary to restore the connection and display on the truck’s touch screen. However, Car Scanner itself reconnected automatically once CarPlay was active again.
Real-Time Data and Impressive Performance with Car Scanner
Driving with Car Scanner displaying real-time vehicle data, such as speed and engine torque, on the Lightning touch screen showcased the system’s impressive performance. Data updates were instantaneous, with no noticeable lag. Monitoring the 12-volt battery’s State of Charge (SOC) revealed a surprising charging pattern. During a short trip of under 10 miles, with a total run time of about 20 minutes, the 12-volt SOC increased from 77% to 84%. The HVDC-LVDC converter consistently charged the battery at 40 to 42 amps, a significantly high rate for such a short journey.
Voice-Controlled App Switching: A Game Changer
Further testing with the vehicle parked demonstrated the impressive “touchless” app switching capabilities within CarPlay. With Car Scanner displaying the 12-volt SOC, using Siri voice commands to switch between MyRadar and Apple Maps proved incredibly efficient. Each request to “display [app name]” resulted in a seamless transition to the desired app, including returning to the specific 12-volt SOC screen within Car Scanner.
This voice-controlled app switching significantly enhances the user experience, allowing for safe and convenient access to various functionalities without needing to interact directly with the Car Scanner Touch Screen. The improved CarPlay integration with the Lightning touch screen demonstrates a remarkable advancement in in-car technology, providing a user-friendly and informative driving experience.
