If you've been looking at the features of a new Mercedes-Benz car, you've seen that many of them come with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. But what does Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for Mercedes-Benz vehicles mean?
Apple CarPlay
Drivers can anticipate some of the newest automotive innovations inside new and used Mercedes-Benz vehicles, whether they choose an SUV like the Mercedes-Benz GLC or a stylish Mercedes-Benz C-Class sedan. Because it smoothly combines your phone with your dash screen, Mercedes-Benz Apple CarPlay is usually a favourite among drivers.
Features:
Making calls:
Call, pick up the phone when it rings, and voicemail. Siri can assist you with all of these tasks.
Voice control:
Siri voice control is a feature of CarPlay, which was created specifically for use while driving. The knobs, buttons, or touchscreen in your Mercedes-Benz automobile can all be used with CarPlay. Additionally, the apps have been redesigned specifically for use in cars, allowing you to utilize them while keeping your hands and eyes in the proper places.
Messages:
You won't ever need to glance at your iPhone while driving because Siri can send, read, and reply to your text messages for you.
Additionally, CarPlay plays audio messages so you can hear people's voices.
Music:
Use the built-in controls in your car to access all of your iTunes, Spotify, and other music app content. You could also just tell Siri what you want to hear. On your display, you can also enjoy Spotify's New and For You, which features picks based on your interests in addition to songs, artists, and albums chosen by music industry professionals.
Which Mercedes-Benz vehicles support Apple CarPlay?
NTG 4 and NTG 4.5 systems do not support Apple CarPlay due to their manufacturing period, however, this does not mean that owners of Mercedes Benz running the NTG 4 or NTG 4.5 Comand APS System cannot enjoy those benefits, thanks to our CarPlay MMI box system.
You can find out what Mercedes Comand APS head unit your vehicle has here
Although some NTG 5 and NTG 6 Comand systems don’t come with CarPlay by default, depending on the Head unit type, carplay can be coded using specialized software. To check if it’s possible, all you need to do is send us your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). If you are based in the UK, you can also contact us with your car Registration Number.
Setup:
1: Connect your iPhone to the Mercedes-Benz infotainment system's USB port.
2: An option called "Connect" should be available on your infotainment screen. Select "Automatically" from the menu selections after pressing this on the following menu prompt.
3: Select "Manually" on the second screen if you wish to switch iPhones and add more individuals to Apple CarPlay for Mercedes-Benz.
CarPlay MMI
Your phone and your Mercedes-Benz are connected via the CarPlay MMI wireless or wired multimedia bridge. It is integrated with the built-in display and controller and has a similar feel and functionality to OEM Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Thanks to its user-friendly and straightforward design, this CarPlay retrofit makes it simple to use many of your iPhone's apps in full screen on your Mercedes-Benz dashboard screen that was installed at the factory.
Features:
With CarPlay MMI for Mercedes-Benz automobiles, you can wirelessly connect your iPhone or Android Phone. You won't ever need to take your iPhone out of your pocket or bag after you've wirelessly linked it with the CarPlay MMI. The MMI will instantly recognize your phone and establish a wireless connection. As with a Bluetooth hands-free connection, you may answer calls while using Mercedes-Benz CarPlay.
You may use it to play music and videos from a USB flash drive on your infotainment screen or charge your iPhone while traveling for long distances.
Voice control:
Simply press and hold the voice control button on the steering wheel to turn on Siri voice control.
Switches and Controls:
The car's buttons, dials, and knobs are also compatible with CarPlay MMI.
Maps:
Your car has access to Apple Maps' strength and simplicity. Using addresses from your email, text messages, contacts, and calendars, CarPlay MMI can forecast your location. And now it's simpler than ever to get where you need to go thanks to a more accurate map, spoken directions that take you step-by-step, and immersive 3D experiences. One-tap access to your favorite and must-see locations also makes it easier to discover more things to see and do when you get there, whether you're looking for nearby gas stations, traveling to a favorite restaurant, or browsing for sites of interest.
Music:
Use the built-in controls in your car to access all of your material from your Apple Music subscription and extra audio apps. Search by song, album, or artist. View the current and upcoming schedule. Siri can be your DJ, play your favorite Arcade Fire song, or stream any of more than 100,000 live radio stations.
Screen-Mirroring:
To share or stream content from your phone to the screen in your car, use AirPlay. Watch the news on TV, YouTube, and in photos and videos.
Compatibility:
The CarPlay MMI box can be fitted in any of the Mercedes-Benz systems.
For some models with NTG 5 system, It can be activated even though it’s hidden by Mercedes-Benz because the customer didn’t buy it when they ordered the car. It’s done by coding the system. We also provide this service; if you're interested, get in touch with us. All we need is your car's 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). If you live in the UK, you can also contact us and provide your vehicle's registration number so we can check.
Setup:
The CarPlay MMI retrofit for Mercedes-Benz is designed specifically for each model because each vehicle has a different configuration. The CarPlay update, however, is always completely plug and play, doesn't require any long-term modifications to your car, is completely lease-friendly, and doesn't void your warranty regardless of your car's specifications. If you require any assistance with the installation procedure, kindly get in touch with us.
Comparison:
Availability:
The OEM Apple CarPlay isn’t available for models equipped with NTG 4, NTG 4.5, and NTG 5 systems, on the other hand, CarPlay MMI is available for all Mercedes-Benz models.
Installation:
OEM Apple CarPlay installation is carried out using a USB cable or laptop, whereas CarPlay MMI installation is easier and more DIY-friendly because it uses Plug & Play hardware (MMI module, wiring harness).
Connection:
The first-generation OEM Mercedes-Benz Apple CarPlay is not capable of supporting a wireless connection between the iPhone and the vehicle, you have to connect using your Iphone charging cable.
Features:
Both devices include all of the essential IOS apps (Apple Music, Spotify, Waze, Google Maps, Apple Maps, etc.).
