Apple CarPlay to ease in-car iPhone use

Ferrari, Mercedes-Benz and Volvo will be the first manufacturers to use Apple's new 'CarPlay' system, which is designed to make iPhones easier to use on the move.

The system allows the iPhone to interface with the car's controls and displays, allowing drivers to quickly access commonly used functions with the minimum of distraction.

CarPlay will allow users to make calls, listen to music, get traffic-based route guidance and access messages with a simple vocal command or button press.

Siri, Apple's intelligent personal assistant, can also be accessed with a push of a button on the steering wheel, and further used to dictate new messages or make return calls.

The new interface option will be rolled out across more manufacturers in the future, including BMW, Jaguar, Nissan and Toyota.

Greg Joswiak, Apple’s vice president of iPhone and iOS Product Marketing, said, "iPhone users always want their content at their fingertips and CarPlay lets drivers use their iPhone in the car with minimised distraction."

CarPlay is offered as an update to iOS 7 and works with Lightning-equipped iPhones, including all fifth-generation models.

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