“Despite being announced over a year ago, it’s taken some time for automakers to include Apple CarPlay, the tech giant’s connectivity software, in their respective infotainment systems,” Andrew Krok reports for CNET. “That number seems to be growing by the week now, and it looks like Mercedes-Benz is ready to get in on the action.”
“According to a dealership memo leaked to C450AMG.net, CarPlay will be limited to just a few models in the lineup, and only certain variants thereof built after a specific date,” Krok reports. “The cars include the B-Class, E-Class (coupe and convertible — no sedans), CLA-Class, GLA-Class, CLS-Class and GLE-Class (coupe and standard). All cars except the GLE will need build dates after December 1 — the GLE requires a build date after January 8.”
Read more in the full article here.
MacDailyNews Take: Finally, real Apple-designed iPhone integration is actually rolling out!
“For those interested to get CarPlay in their Mercedes, there are two ways they can have it. One is having it installed starting at $350,” Giancarlo Perlas reports for BenzInsider. “It will be a standalone package called Code 868 Smartphone Integration Package. The other offers it as part of the vehicle’s revised high-end COMAND infotainment system. The latter comes without additional cost for autos that come with the COMAND system as a standard feature such as the GLE 400, GLE 450, AMG GLE 63, and AMG GLE 63 S, but will cost around $3,650 to $4,080 for some.”
Perlas reports, “It should be noted that the package will also be released for select models of other 39 car brands, including the competitors of Mercedes, namely Audi and BMW.”
Read more in the full article here.
MacDailyNews Take: You just know that Steve Jobs would somehow have CarPlay custom-installed in his endless parade of silver SL55 AMGs.
SEE ALSO:
Apple’s CarPlay attracting vehicle buyers GM dealers say – December 14, 2015
The Verge reviews Apple’s CarPlay: ‘Miles better than your car’s interface’ – September 4, 2015
WSJ reviews Apple CarPlay: Siri’s finally on the right road – August 18, 2015
Hands on with Apple’s CarPlay in the new Corvette – August 10, 2015
2016 Honda Accord delivers Apple CarPlay – July 24, 2015
GM to roll out Apple’s CarPlay across 14 Chevy models this year – May 27, 2015
Apple’s CarPlay success shows the power of having a long-term strategy – March 15, 2015
Apple’s real CarPlay: Cupertino doesn’t need to build cars in order to reinvent driving – February 28, 2015
Ford drops reputation-scorching Microsoft Sync, enables support for Apple’s sought-after CarPlay – December 12, 2014
Apple’s CarPlay looks like the future of in-car infotainment – April 13, 2014
I wonder if I can get them to install this in my 2014 C350
One would assume that the option would be across the entire line.
That’s really weird that they’re not including the S Class. Mercedes as some Performa-level messiness going on with their product lines these days. My fiance and I are totally confused on what to get and whether it makes sense to do a trip to Europe to pick one up. It used to be a lot easier.
Ya, Mercedes is a real head scratcher. They’re supposed to represent the best of the best…and they’re really slow to adopt carplay and can’t manage to span their entire product line still. I’ve got an E350 and an SLK350 and neither support carplay in the 2016 models. Makes me wonder what car I should replace my MBs with if they can’t catch up to General Motors soon. If that last sentence makes someone in Germany cry….it should. You’re either the best luxury brand…or you’re not.
So buy a Porsche instead!