Plans to integrate Apple CarPlay into vehicle controls

Your iPhone could soon be used to adjust your car’s radio, climate settings, and seats, under a new secret plan from the technology giant.

Apple is reportedly working on an interface which would allow CarPlay software to access car controls, according to news outlet Bloomberg, with the aim to reduce the need to exit CarPlay when driving.

Modern vehicles are increasingly moving cabin controls to centrally-mounted touchscreens – eliminating the need for physical, bespoke switchgear on each model.

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But as controls are being integrated into the infotainment system, it means occupants have to exit out of Apple CarPlay – popular due to its easy-to-use navigation and music apps – in order to change the simplest of settings.

The project is said to be named ‘IronHeart’, and would provide your iPhone’s operating system with access to inside and outside temperatures, heating and air conditioning, sound system settings, power seat controls, and instrument readings such as the speedometer, tachometer, and fuel gauge.

If the project proves to be true, it could allow Apple or third-party developers to record data on how people interact with their vehicles, potentially leading to new features or apps.