Why doesn't Geely support CarPlay?
2 Answers
Geely does not support CarPlay due to vehicle configuration issues. CarPlay is an in-car system released by Apple Inc., which seamlessly integrates users' iOS devices and iOS experience with the dashboard system. CarPlay only supports iPhones with Lightning interfaces. Although iPads now support this interface, Apple has not listed iPads as hardware devices supported by CarPlay. There are primarily three 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 CarPlay-supported cars are equipped with a touchscreen display, allowing you to open or close applications on a fairly simple home screen. Physical Buttons: Cars with physical buttons can control CarPlay as one of the methods. Controls like volume adjustment and track switching are seamlessly integrated.
I've been driving a Geely car for several years and often get asked why it doesn't support CarPlay. Probably because Geely values the habits of the Chinese domestic market more. For instance, they partnered with Baidu to promote the Carlife system, which is more popular among Chinese users. Its navigation maps and voice assistant are well-tailored to domestic needs. Apple CarPlay only suits iPhone users, while Android phones dominate the Chinese market. Geely likely sees no need to invest extra resources in integration, especially with high licensing fees affecting cost control. Using Carlife, I've found it quite convenient for music and calls. Geely probably thinks focusing on local systems is safer, aligning with policies encouraging domestic tech, reducing hassle while saving owners money.
