O'Grady's PowerPage

Tag: dealer

  • Some 2018 Lexus models eligible for $199 CarPlay update

    If you snagged a Lexus in 2018, you might be able to add CarPlay functionality to it via a $199 upgrade.

    Lexus recently announced that it is bringing CarPlay to some older vehicles, following the launch of CarPlay in new 2019 Lexus vehicles last September. 

    CarPlay functionality can be installed in the 2018 LS, LC, RC, RC F, and NX, and CarPlay options are available in both the U.S. and Canada.

    The following vehicles come equipped with a Lexus Multimedia System that can also support Alexa and are eligible for the upgrade:

    • 2018 LS
    • 2018 LC
    • 2018 RC and RC F
    • 2018 NX
    • 2019 NX (produced before October 2018)
    • 2019 RC F (produced before October 2018)
    • 2019 ES, without factory navigation (purchased before October 2018)

    As mentioned before, the CarPlay upgrade retails for $199 and owners should see their Lexus dealer for more information.

    Lexus says that new software will be installed on the Lexus Multimedia System to add the CarPlayfeature, and a Lexus dealer is required to install the update. 

    CarPlay is already available in select 2019 Lexus vehicles including the 2019 UX crossover and the 2019 Lexus ES. 

    If you’ve had a chance to try this out, please let us know about your experience in the comments.

    Via MacRumors and iPhone in Canada

  • CarPlay now available for 2016 Volvo XC90

    applecarplay

    If you bought a super-hip 2016 Volvo XC90, it’s now eligible to run Apple’s CarPlay system.

    The car maker announced that CarPlay is available to both current and future XC90 crossover owners. Starting today, when you plug your iPhone into the car’s USB Port, part of the Senus touchscreen will transform into CarPlay. Since the XC90 features a large 9.0-inch display, CarPlay only occupies the bottom half of the display. The top half remains the same as to allow users to access required vehicle functions.

    (more…)

  • Honda, Acura, other car makers to offer Siri-based Eyes Free support on some 2013 models

    Soon you will talk to your car.

    And it might actually do some of the things you ask of it.

    Per AppleInsider, the American division of carmaker Honda announced on Wednesday it will integrate support for Apple’s voice-driven Siri personal assistant into its 2013 Honda Accord and Acura RDX and ILX models.

    The 2013 Honda Accord will offer Siri Eyes Free integration as a dealer upgrade option.

    The feature will be a dealer-installed option for customers who buy the latest model of the vehicles. Using a compatible iPhone running iOS 6, users will be able to direct Siri to perform specific tasks while keeping their eyes on the road.

    Honda was already announced last June as one of nine auto makers that planned to support Siri’s Eyes Free mode. However, prior to Wednesday’s announcement, it was not known which vehicles Honda planned to offer with Siri integration, or when those vehicles would become available.

    Earlier this month at the Consumer Electronics Show, Hyundai also announced it would include Eyes Free support for Siri in its next-generation infotainment systems. Hyundai did not give any specific vehicle models.

    General Motors did, however, announce support for its Chevy Spark and Sonic vehicles last November.

    Hands Free allows the iPhone screen to stay off and help prevent the driver from being distracted by their device. The Siri personal assistant software talks to a user out loud, allowing them to pay attention to the road.

    The other companies that have announced plans to support Siri Eyes Free are BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Land Rover, Jaguar, Audi, Toyota, and Chrysler.

    Stay tuned for additional details as they become available.