Why doesn't BYD support CarPlay?
2 Answers
BYD does not support CarPlay because its original in-car system is essentially a tablet computer equipped with a full range of apps. CarPlay is an in-car system launched by Apple Inc., which seamlessly integrates users' iOS devices and iOS experience with the dashboard system. CarPlay only supports iPhones with Lightning ports. Although iPads also support this interface, Apple has not included iPads as hardware devices supported by CarPlay. Ways to control CarPlay: Siri: You can communicate with the car through Siri, instructing it on what to do next. You can also hear the system read out messages received on your phone and reply using voice dictation. Touchscreen display: Some cars that support CarPlay come with a touchscreen display, allowing you to open or close apps on a relatively simple home screen. Physical buttons: Cars equipped with physical buttons can also control CarPlay as one of the methods.
As a BYD owner, I'm often asked why my car doesn't support CarPlay. The main reason is actually quite simple: BYD wants to push its own DiLink system. This platform, developed based on Android, integrates numerous local services like Baidu Maps and Tencent Music, making it extremely convenient for users in the Chinese market. I suspect that supporting CarPlay would require additional costs for Apple licensing and hardware adaptation, and might also risk data leaks or weaken BYD's control over its software. BYD has invested heavily in DiLink to create a seamless ecosystem, offering everything from navigation to voice control, which is more reliable than relying on third-party solutions. In the long run, this strategy helps reduce costs and enhance competitiveness, especially since Chinese market users aren't particularly obsessed with Apple products. So, I recommend getting used to DiLink—it's fast-updating and practical. While missing out on CarPlay might be a bit frustrating, the overall experience isn't compromised.
