Tag Archives: Apple CarPlay

NEWS

Apple CarPlay now available on 2025 Proton X70, here’s how to download and install

Proton has announced that Apple CarPlay is now available for owners of the 2025 Proton X70, which was launched back in August. This makes the X70 the first Proton model to receive the highly popular connectivity feature.

According to the national automotive brand, Apple CarPlay for the 2025 X70 will be available via over-the-air (OTA) update effective from 16th October 2024.

Starting from that date, owners will receive the OTA notifications in batches, and they only need to follow these steps to download it to their vehicle:

Step 1: Download and install

  • The software update package will be downloaded once it is available for customer vehicle. User needs to keep the engine running until the download is complete.
  • Upon completion, user may begin installation anytime at their convenience. Once installation has begun, user needs to keep the engine running until the software update is complete.

Step 2: Verify software version

  • A successful software update can be verified in the Vehicle Settings under [System Information] > [About IHU]. The latest system version is SW3RBA10925H1141.
  • This version contains Apple CarPlay, improved system performance and various bug fixes for an enhanced user experience.

Step 3: Start to use

  • With the latest software update installed, user can enjoy the convenience of Apple CarPlay by pairing a compatible iPhone either via USB or wireless (Bluetooth) connection.
  • Once an iPhone is successfully paired to the system, users can launch the Apple CarPlay interface by tapping on the icon highlighted above.
NEWS

We’ve tried Apple CarPlay on the 2025 Proton X70!

As everyone is aware, in the latest update, the Proton X70 C-segment SUV will come with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard features for the 2025 model year.

Based on a brief test drive report by a colleague a few weeks ago, it seems that the feature is still not available for use.

Yesterday (October 15, 2024), we had the opportunity to try out the much-anticipated Apple CarPlay connection on the Proton X70 for media test driving purposes.

During the brief period of use, no significant differences were felt compared to the similar systems found in other modern cars.

Menus and applications such as Google Maps or Waze can be easily accessed on the 12.3-inch infotainment screen without much delay, and owners can also choose to use the phrases “Hey Proton” or “Hey Siri” to direct the system to perform specific operations while driving.

Those who are familiar with using Apple CarPlay will understand the importance of this system in a new car, especially when driving in urban areas.

For your information, this wireless Apple CarPlay feature will only be available for the 2025 Proton X70 model through over-the-air updates that will be implemented in stages.

The availability of the Android Auto feature will be announced later on.

NEWS

7 must-have features that should be in every car

Thanks to continuous advancements in technology and increasingly intense competition, vehicle manufacturers are sparing no effort to throw in as many features into their cars as possible to woo buyers. Some of them can make your life easier, some of them do the opposite.

Previously, we listed seven most useless features typically found in a car. This time, let’s explore the top features that we believe should be present in all cars:

Apple CarPlay/Android Auto

As we all know, the use of smartphones while driving is one of the main causes of road accidents. By connecting a phone to the car’s infotainment screen via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, drivers can make calls, play music, and use navigation systems without taking their hands off the steering wheel. Bonus if the car you purchase comes equipped with wireless versions of ACAA.

Memory function for driver’s seat

If you share your car with a partner, adjusting the driver’s seat is likely a routine task every time you get into your car. With a memory function, this becomes a non-issue, as each driver can save their preferred driving position with just the push of a button.

360-degree cameras

Believe it or not, cars are getting larger for safety and comfort reasons. You can find out if this is true or not by comparing the size of the previous generation Honda City with the current model. For this reason, we feel that a 360-degree camera is essential, as it helps drivers manoeuvre their cars more accurately while monitoring the surroundings for the safety of other road users.

Blind Spot Monitoring

Vehicles such as SUVs, MPVs, or pickup trucks have larger blind spots compared to sedans or hatchbacks. Blind spot monitoring systems can address this issue, making driving safer by providing visual or audio warnings to drivers if a vehicle is in their blind spot.

Keyless Entry and Walk Away Auto Lock

With keyless entry, drivers no longer need to press a button on the key fob to unlock the doors. You simply need to keep the key in your pocket and open the door as usual. The Walk Away Auto Lock feature automatically locks the doors as you walk away, which is immensely useful for forgetful individuals.

ADAS (Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems)

This writer considers himself somewhat old-school, typically trying to avoid over-reliance on modern driving features. However, it has to be said that Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) such as Autonomous Emergency Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, Adaptive Headlights, and more are highly effective in making driving safer.

Ambient lighting

No matter how you slice it, ambient lighting is purely an aesthetic feature. In other words, its sole purpose is to enhance the cabin’s appearance. However, after driving various models from numerous brands and makes, this writer admits that ambient lighting is probably one of the best ways to set the mood and help alleviate drowsiness while driving at night.