Apple CarPlay vs. Android Auto: Which to choose in 2025?

Our CarPlay screens support both protocols: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. But which one is best for your use? Here's an honest comparison to help you choose.

What is Apple CarPlay?

Apple CarPlay is the system developed by Apple to project your iPhone's interface onto a car screen. It is compatible with all iPhones from model 7, running iOS 13 minimum. The interface is clean, intuitive, and uses iOS's visual codes. It includes Maps, Waze, Spotify, Apple Music, Messages, Phone, and hundreds of other compatible applications.

What is Android Auto?

Android Auto is the equivalent developed by Google for Android smartphones (from Android 6.0). Its interface is centered on Google Maps, Google Assistant, Spotify, WhatsApp, and all compatible Android applications. It is clear, well-organized, and very responsive on wireless connections.

Side-by-side comparison

Criterion	Apple CarPlay	Android Auto
Required smartphone	iPhone 7+ (iOS 13+)	Android 6.0+
Navigation	Maps, Waze	Google Maps, Waze
Voice Assistant	Siri	Google Assistant
Music	Apple Music, Spotify...	Spotify, YouTube Music...
Interface	iOS style, clean	Material design style, clear

 

Which one to choose?

The answer is simple: choose based on your smartphone. If you have an iPhone, you'll use CarPlay. If you have an Android, it will be Android Auto. Our screens automatically detect your phone and launch the correct protocol.

If you're hesitating between the two systems for a future phone purchase, know that both offer an excellent driving experience. Google Maps is slightly more precise for navigation, while Siri integration is smoother on CarPlay if you're already in the Apple ecosystem.

Good news

All our screens support both protocols simultaneously. You don't have to choose at the time of purchase — the correct system launches automatically depending on the connected phone.