Apple CarPlay is Relatively Easy to Integrate Into Existing Apps

Support for Apple CarPlay is relatively easy to integrate into existing applications, according to Brian Lakamp of iHeartRadio. The app was one of only a few to be given access to the feature ahead of its public unveiling, reports Fast Company.

“Apple is pretty selective about how they disclose information,” says Lakamp. “Apple made us aware of the opportunity. We were enthusiastic to participate and then worked closely with them to build the demo that they just demoed in Geneva.”

Adding CarPlay integration wasn't a major challenge as Apple's API works with existing applications.


“The way that Apple constructed this is a relatively thin layer that we need to build to copy existing apps that move some of the control and command structure to the console,” Lakamp says. “Then the console simply acts as a remote control to your app. It was a relatively light integration.”

Lakamp said integration "was fairly quick for us" and noted that "Apple has done a good job of doing what you need to do in a car."

An Apple employee revealed to site that only a few third party apps have been given access to the API because the company wants to go "slow and steady" with CarPlay. The employee said safety behind the wheel was a major concern and wouldn't say if more developers will get access once iOS 7.1 ships.

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