Apple recently launched the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro models with USB C ports, but some users are reporting online that Apple CarPlay is not working in their car. This could be due to a simple issue of USB-C cables.
If you aren’t familiar with Apple CarPlay, it is a way to connect and use your iPhone in your car. It allows you to control your iPhone to get directions, make calls, listen to music, and send and receive messages through your cars infotainment system.
Previous iPhones used a Lightning connector for data transfer, charging, accessories and also wired CarPlay. Lightning cables are pretty straight forward, and as long as you buy from a reputable brand, they should work for almost all scenarios.
Moving to USB-C on the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro brings many advantages, including wider accessory support, faster transfer speeds for the Pro models. It also is a widely utilised standard for modern devices including Android devices, cameras, storage and more. The USB-C cables that are available for all of these devices can vary a lot in capability though, and Apple doesn’t help to clear the confusion.
What do I need to connect my iPhone 15 to Apple CarPlay?
To use Apple CarPlay, you specifically need a USB-C cable capable of data transfer. This can be a cable with USB-C to USB-C cable or a USB-A to USB-C cable. Apple included a compatible cable in your iPhone box if your car has a data capable USB-C port.
Not all vehicle USB ports are made equal.
Vehicles from all car manufacturers still haven’t settled on what USB ports they are shipping with. Many still only include USB-A ports, others have moved completely to USB-C, and some even have both. However, pay close attention to the port labels, as some vehicles like the Kia Niro EV only support phone connectivity via the USB-A port, and all of the other USB-C ports are for charging only.
Ports with the label of a battery charging symbol only support charging. Ports labeled with USB or a SS USB logo support charging and data allowing for CarPlay to be used.
What about Wireless CarPlay?
If your vehicle supports Wireless CarPlay, well there’s no need to worry about your USB cable supporting data transfers or not. We do recommend using a charging cable over using the built in wireless charging mats many vehicles come with as standard. In our experience, we have never not had a phone get extremely hot from using the wireless charging mat, and slowing down the phone.
Where do I buy the right USB cable for Apple CarPlay?
Any electronics store, or online retailer can help you with that. If you want to make sure you’re getting a supported cable, and one that works with your car, popping into a store can be your best bet.
We recommend you take a photo of your cars USB ports, and bringing your phone in. Staff will be able to assist with finding the right cable for you.
You can learn more about the Apple CarPlay feature for your iPhone here.
