What are the differences between HiCar and CarPlay?
2 Answers
HiCar is Huawei's smart connectivity solution for scenarios, while CarPlay is the in-car system released by Apple. A comparison between HiCar and CarPlay: Connection method: HiCar connects by bringing the phone close to the in-car smart screen, utilizing the phone's built-in NFC chip for sensing, and completing the connection with the car's system via Bluetooth. CarPlay pairs via Bluetooth on the car's system, and once the phone completes Bluetooth pairing, the connection is established. UI design: HiCar continues Huawei's EMUI color scheme, supports theme switching and custom wallpaper changes, offering high playability. CarPlay, on the other hand, follows the typical iOS color scheme, only offering day/night color switching and fixed wallpaper changes.
The main difference between HiCar and CarPlay lies in device compatibility. CarPlay, developed by Apple, exclusively supports iPhone users—simply connect your iPhone to the car, and it's ready to use. HiCar, on the other hand, is designed by Huawei specifically for Huawei smartphones, offering a more seamless experience for Huawei fans. In terms of car compatibility, CarPlay supports a wider range of brands, such as BMW and Volkswagen, while HiCar primarily integrates with Chinese automakers like BYD or Geely. I once tried HiCar with a friend's Huawei phone and found its automatic app synchronization quite convenient, though its app selection is more limited compared to CarPlay. For third-party app integration, CarPlay offers richer options, including Spotify and Google Maps, whereas HiCar relies on Huawei's AppGallery. Both support wireless connectivity, but setup processes may vary, so it's best to consult your car's manual. The trend suggests more automakers will adopt dual-system support in the future, but for now, choosing the system aligned with your phone brand can save you hassle.
