How To Connect To Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in Your New Toyota

In today’s connected world, accessing your smartphone’s features while driving has become increasingly important. Toyota recognizes this need and offers Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility in many of its vehicles. These systems allow you to safely use your phone’s navigation, communication, and entertainment apps through your car’s infotainment system. Let’s explore which Toyota models come equipped with these features and how to set them up in your new Toyota in Palestine, Texas.

Toyota Models with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay

2021 Toyota Camry by Alden Jewell is licensed with CC BY 2.0 DEED

Toyota offers Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility across many of its models, including:

• Sedans: GR86, Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Corolla, Corolla Hybrid, Corolla Hatchback, Camry, Camry Hybrid, GR Supra, Mirai, Prius, and Prius Prime.
• Minivans: Sienna.
• Trucks: Tacoma and Tundra.
• Crossovers and SUVs: 4Runner, C-HR, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, RAV4, RAV4 Prime, Sequoia, and Venza.

Setting Up Android Auto in Your Toyota

To connect an Android smartphone to Android Auto in your Toyota, ensure your phone runs on Android 5.0 (Lollipop) or higher. Then, follow these steps:

1. Download the Android Auto app from the Google Play Store.
2. Connect your phone to your Toyota’s infotainment system using a USB cable.
3. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup process.

Once connected, you can access key Android Auto features through your Toyota’s touch screen or voice commands, including:

• Voice commands: Use the “speak to command” button to activate voice controls and give instructions hands-free.
• Calendar integration: Access your calendar appointments and reminders while on the go.
• Navigation: Use Google Maps or Waze for turn-by-turn directions and real-time traffic updates.
• Audio streaming: Listen to your favorite music, podcasts, and audiobooks through apps such as Spotify, Google Play Music, and Audible.
• Google Assistant: Get help from Google’s digital assistant for various tasks and queries.
• Third-party app integration: Use popular apps, such as WhatsApp, Skype, and Pandora, directly through the infotainment system.

Setting Up Apple CarPlay in Your Toyota

For iPhone users, connecting to Apple CarPlay is just as easy. Make sure your iPhone is running iOS 7.1 or later, and follow these steps:

1. Connect your iPhone to your Toyota’s infotainment system using a USB cable or wireless Bluetooth (if available).
2. If prompted, unlock your iPhone and permit CarPlay to access your data.
3. The CarPlay interface will appear on your car’s touch screen.

With Apple CarPlay, you can access key iPhone features and apps through your Toyota’s infotainment system, including:

• Voice commands: Use Siri to make calls, send messages, and control apps hands-free.
• Calendar integration: View and manage your calendar events while driving.
• Navigation: Get directions and traffic information through Apple Maps.
• Audio streaming: Enjoy your music library, podcasts, and audiobooks through apps such as Apple Music, Spotify, and Audible.
• Siri: Ask Siri for assistance with various tasks, such as setting reminders or checking the weather.
• Third-party app integration: Use popular apps, such as WhatsApp, Skype, and Pandora, directly through the infotainment system.

Troubleshooting Android Auto and Apple CarPlay Issues

Toyota’s Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are designed to work seamlessly, but if you have issues, here are some solutions:

• Restarting devices: If either system isn’t responding, try restarting your phone or your car’s infotainment system.
• Checking USB cables: Ensure your USB cable isn’t damaged and is securely connected to your phone and the car’s USB port.
• Resetting Bluetooth connections: If you’re using Bluetooth to connect, try turning it off and on again on your phone or delete and re-pair the connection in your car’s settings.
• Removing other paired devices: If your phone is connected to another device, such as your home audio system, disconnect it and try again.
• Updating apps and operating systems: Keep your Android Auto or Apple CarPlay apps and your phone’s operating system up to date to ensure optimal performance.
• Updating infotainment system software: Check with your Toyota dealer in Palestine, Texas, to see if updates are available for your car’s infotainment system.

Tips for Using Android Auto and Apple CarPlay

To make the most of your Android Auto or Apple CarPlay experience, consider these tips:

• To use voice commands with your infotainment system, press the “speak to command” button to let the system know you’re about to speak. This will pause any audio on your device, allowing you to give hands-free commands to play music, navigate to a specific location, send text messages, find service stations, and make phone calls while driving.
• Use calendar integration to manage your schedule and receive reminders for appointments and tasks.
• Utilize navigation apps, such as Google Maps, Waze, or Apple Maps, for turn-by-turn directions and real-time traffic updates, all displayed on your car’s touch screen.
• Stream your favorite music, podcasts, and audiobooks through apps, such as Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, and more, directly through your car’s audio system.
• Rely on your digital assistant (Google Assistant or Siri) to control various functions using simple voice commands, allowing you to keep your eyes on the road and hands on the wheel.

Enjoy the Benefits of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay in Your Toyota

Integrating your smartphone with your Toyota’s infotainment system offers several benefits, including:

• Safer driving: By using voice commands and steering wheel controls, you can keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road while still accessing your phone’s features.
• Seamless integration: Android Auto and Apple CarPlay allow you to use your phone’s apps and functions through a familiar interface, making it easier to stay connected while driving.
• Access to your favorite apps: With a wide range of supported third-party apps, you can enjoy your preferred navigation, communication, and entertainment services on the go.
• Customizable experience: Both systems allow you to customize your home screen, rearrange apps, and set preferences to suit your needs.

Experience Toyota Connectivity in Palestine, Texas

If your Toyota doesn’t currently support Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, consider upgrading your infotainment system at Palestine Toyota to take advantage of these powerful features. You can make your newer Toyota compatible with Android Auto or Apple CarPlay by installing the latest version of the infotainment system software or retrofitting it with a new head unit.  Contact us to experience the convenience and safety of a connected drive today.