What is Apple CarPlay?


Audi R8 with KENWOOD DMX8021DABS wireless and wired Apple CarPlay

Smarter Driving Starts Here

Apple CarPlay connects your iPhone to a compatible car stereo or touchscreen display, giving you access to navigation, calls, messages, music and selected apps from your dashboard. With a KENWOOD Apple CarPlay stereo, you can use Apple Maps, Google Maps, Waze, Spotify, Apple Music, WhatsApp and Siri through a clear touchscreen without handling your phone while driving.

Wireless and wired Apple CarPlay help drivers stay connected while keeping focus on the road. Access popular apps, including Apple Maps, Google Maps, Waze, Spotify, Apple Music, WhatsApp, and Podcasts, through your car stereo without needing to handle your phone while driving.

A KENWOOD Apple CarPlay stereo upgrades older cars, vans, campervans and motorhomes with modern smartphone connectivity, clearer navigation and improved entertainment. Many drivers replace outdated factory radios with a modern Double DIN touchscreen system featuring wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, DAB+ digital radio and Bluetooth.

Wireless Apple CarPlay automatically connects your iPhone when you enter the vehicle, while wired Apple CarPlay provides a stable USB connection and phone charging. Many KENWOOD multimedia systems are wireless & wired, or just wired. Also, KENWOOD systems support reversing cameras, steering wheel control integration, premium sound tuning and HD touchscreen displays.

Need Apple CarPlay fitted to your vehicle?

Speak to a KENWOOD Pro Install Dealer for advice on the best stereo, fitting kit and vehicle integration options for your car, van, campervan or motorhome.

► Find A Pro Install Dealer

 

Benefits of Apple CarPlay

Apple CarPlay helps make driving simpler, more convenient and more enjoyable. A modern touchscreen display gives you faster access to the features you use most every day, helping improve navigation, entertainment and communication on the road.

Many drivers upgrade to a KENWOOD Apple CarPlay stereo to modernise older cars, vans, campervans and motorhomes with the latest smartphone connectivity and multimedia features. Large HD touchscreens, cleaner menus and faster app access help transform outdated factory radios into a more modern driving experience.

Better Navigation


Use Apple Maps, Google Maps or Waze directly from your dashboard with live traffic updates, points of interest, shops, petrol stations, etc., clearer route guidance and easier destination searching.

Cleaner Dashboard Experience


A modern Double DIN touchscreen stereo gives your dashboard a more premium appearance while reducing the need for separate phone mounts and cables.

Ideal for Campervans & Motorhomes


Apple CarPlay is popular with campervan and motorhome owners thanks to easier long-distance navigation, music streaming and large touchscreen displays which improve visibility while travelling. Add the optional Sygic Navigation App to avoid low bridges, narrow roads, steep hills and other hazards.

Easy Access to Music & Apps


Control your favourite music, podcasts, and audio apps from the touchscreen display, with quick access to playlists, streaming services, and media controls.

Upgrade Older Vehicles with Modern Technology


Apple CarPlay is one of the most popular upgrades for older vehicles, adding modern smartphone integration, touchscreen controls and improved daily usability.

More Than Just Apple CarPlay


Many KENWOOD multimedia systems also include Android Auto, Bluetooth, DAB+ digital radio, HDMI input, reversing camera support (front, rear, left, and right camera option inputs), and advanced audio tuning, providing a complete in-car entertainment upgrade with smartphone mirroring, touchscreen control, and improved driving convenience.

 

Wired vs Wireless Apple CarPlay

Wired Apple CarPlay connects your iPhone to the stereo using a USB cable. It gives a stable connection and charges your phone while you drive.

Wireless Apple CarPlay connects automatically once your iPhone has been paired. It keeps the dashboard cleaner and removes the need to plug in your phone for everyday journeys.

Many KENWOOD multimedia systems support both wireless and wired Apple CarPlay, giving drivers the choice between convenience and direct USB charging.

 

KENWOOD Apple CarPlay Upgrades With Pro Install Support

Choose a KENWOOD wireless and wired Apple CarPlay system for trusted performance, advanced features and vehicle-specific integration, backed by our experienced Pro Install Dealer network who know your vehicle inside and out. They provide expert advice on the best system for your car, van, campervan or motorhome, professional installation and ongoing support, with the added confidence of a 3-year warranty when supplied and fitted by an approved KENWOOD Pro Install Dealer.

VW Transporter DMX9724XDS Wireless Apple CarPlay

DMX9724XDS

Wireless & Wired CarPlay

10.1" HD floating screen with wireless & wired Apple CarPlay, Android Auto system, delivering a sleek OEM-style fit while retaining factory vehicle settings (Additional interface wiring kit required), rear view camera and steering wheel controls, plus support for up to three additional cameras and HDMI input.

Popular Vehicles: VW Transporter & Crafter, Ford Transit, Mercedes Sprinter, Renault Trafic, Fiat Ducato, Peugeot Boxer and Hymer. Suitable for larger vehicles like motorhomes, vans, campervans, HGVs & trucks.

Ford Transit Custom DMX-F920DS Wireless Apple CarPlay

DMX-F920DS

Wireless & Wired CarPlay

9.0” HD floating touchscreen with wireless and wired Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, DAB+ radio & Bluetooth, designed for modern and older cars, vans, campervans and motorhomes. 1-DIN chassis design supports installation in a wide range of vehicles while retaining steering wheel controls & reversing camera with added compatible integration wiring-kit.

Popular Vehicles: Land Rover Defender & Discovery, Jeep Wrangler, Mitsubishi L200, VW Transporters, Crafter, Ford Transit, Mercedes Sprinter, Renault Trafic, Nissan Navara, Fiat Ducato & Peugeot Boxer.

Audi R8 DMX8021DABS Wireless Apple CarPlay

DMX8021DABS

Wireless & Wired CarPlay

One of our most popular wireless & wired Apple CarPlay & Android Auto Double DIN touchscreen car stereo upgrades. Featuring a 7” capacitive touchscreen, DAB+ digital radio, Bluetooth, HDMI input, four camera inputs and advanced audio tuning. A great upgrade for modern & older cars, vans, trucks and HGVs with modern connected technology.

Popular Vehicles: Audi R8 & TT, Ford Fiesta, Land Rover Defender, Mercedes CLK, SLK & Sprinter, Mitsubishi L200, Nissan Qashqai, Porsche 911, Toyota Hilux and VW Crafter, Golf, Passat & Transporter.

Hyundai i10 DMX80AXS Wireless Apple CarPlay

DMX80AXS

Wireless & Wired CarPlay

Designed for vehicle-specific installation kits across hundreds of popular car brands, via our Pro Install Dealers. Its 9.0” touchscreen supports wireless and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with FM radio, rear camera input, 13-band EQ and Digital Time Alignment for improved sound quality.

Popular Manufacturers: Alfa Romeo, Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Citroën, Peugeot, Fiat, Ford, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mazda, Nissan, Renault, SEAT, Škoda, Toyota & Volkswagen.

DMX7525DABS

Wireless & Wired CarPlay

A compact 6.8” HD touchscreen upgrade with wireless and wired Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, DAB+ radio, Bluetooth and smartphone mirroring. A strong choice for drivers who want a sharp display, modern connectivity, camera support and improved sound control in a wide range of cars, vans and campervans.

Popular Vehicles: Ford Fiesta & Transit, Honda Civic, Mercedes SLK & Sprinter, Nissan Qashqai, Suzuki Jimny, Vauxhall Astra & Corsa, VW Golf & Transporter, and older cars.

Mazda MX5 DMX6523DABS Wireless Apple CarPlay

DMX6523DABS

Wireless & Wired CarPlay

A cost-effective 6.8” touchscreen system and the first model in the KENWOOD range with wireless and wired Apple CarPlay. It also includes Android Auto, DAB+ radio, Bluetooth, wireless smartphone mirroring, rear camera input and advanced sound tuning, making it a smart upgrade for older vehicles.

Popular Vehicles: Audi TT, BMW & Mini, Fiat 500, Ford Focus, Galaxy & Transit, Hyundai i10, KIA Sportage, Mazda MX5, Nissan, Renault Captur & Trafic, Vauxhall Corsa, VW Golf, Polo.

Hyundai i10 DMX5023DABS Wired Apple CarPlay

DMX5023DABS

Wired CarPlay

A budget-friendly 6.8” touchscreen upgrade with wired Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, DAB+ radio & Bluetooth, designed for cars, vans, campervans and motorhomes. Features include 13-band EQ, Digital Time Alignment, rear camera input with parking guidelines, front, rear & sub pre-outs, giving improved connectivity, entertainment and sound quality.

Popular Vehicles: Audi TT, BMW & Mini, Fiat 500, Ford Focus, Galaxy & Transit, Hyundai i10, KIA Sportage, Mazda MX5, Nissan, Renault Captur & Trafic, Vauxhall Corsa, VW Golf, Polo.

Hyundai i10 DMX5023DABS Wired Apple CarPlay

3-Year Extended Warranty

Available via a Pro Install Dealer only

Choose a KENWOOD Pro Install Dealer for expert advice, professional vehicle-specific installation and clean OEM-style integration of features including steering wheel controls, reversing cameras, parking sensors and factory vehicle settings with compatible interface wiring-kit. Approved dealers help ensure your Apple CarPlay and Android Auto system works correctly with your vehicle while delivering a high-quality finish and reliable everyday performance. Systems supplied and fitted by an approved KENWOOD Pro Install Dealer also include a 3-year warranty for added confidence and peace of mind.

Hyundai i10 DMX5023DABS Wired Apple CarPlay

Pro Install Dealers

Experts who know your vehicle

Great service from people who know your vehicle. KENWOOD Pro Install Dealers provide expert advice and vehicle-specific installation solutions for cars, vans, campervans and motorhomes. With years of experience, they deliver clean OEM-style integration, reliable fitting and professional support for Apple CarPlay & Android Auto upgrades. Many installations retain factory features including steering wheel controls, reversing cameras, parking sensors and vehicle settings, helping your new system look and work like factory equipment while improving navigation, music, calls & everyday driving.

 

Apple CarPlay FAQs

Find answers to some of the most common questions about Apple CarPlay, Wireless Apple CarPlay and upgrading your vehicle with a KENWOOD touchscreen multimedia system. Learn more about compatibility, installation, steering wheel control retention, reversing cameras, campervan upgrades, smartphone connectivity and the features available across the KENWOOD range of Wireless and Wired Apple CarPlay stereos.

  • · What is Apple CarPlay?

    Apple CarPlay is a smart driving platform from Apple which connects your iPhone to a compatible touchscreen car stereo. It allows you to safely access navigation, calls, messages, music and selected apps directly from your dashboard using touchscreen controls or Siri voice commands. Apple CarPlay is available in both wired and wireless versions and is widely used in cars, vans, campervans and motorhomes to upgrade older vehicles with modern smartphone connectivity and easier everyday driving.


  • · Does Apple CarPlay work wirelessly?

    Yes. KENWOOD has a range of Apple CarPlay stereos which support Wireless Apple CarPlay, allowing your iPhone to connect automatically without using a USB cable. Once paired, you can access navigation, calls, messages, music and apps directly from the touchscreen each time you enter the vehicle. Wireless Apple CarPlay helps reduce cable clutter and makes everyday driving more convenient.

    KENWOOD Wireless Apple CarPlay systems include:

    • DMX9724XDS - 10.1" Floating HD Capacitive Touchscreen Wireless and Wired Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, DAB+ System
    • DMX-F920DS - 9.0" Floating HD Capacitive Touchscreen Wireless and Wired Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, DAB+ System
    • DMX8021DABS - 7.0" Capacitive Touchscreen Wireless and Wired Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, DAB+ System
    • DMX80AXS - 9.0" Capacitive Touchscreen Wireless and Wired Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, FM System
    • DMX7525DABS - 6.8" Capacitive Touchscreen Wireless and Wired Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, DAB+ System
    • DMX6523DABS - 6.8" Capacitive Touchscreen Wireless and Wired Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, DAB+ System

    These touchscreen car stereos are designed for cars, vans, trucks, HGVs, campervans and motorhomes, bringing modern smartphone connectivity and advanced multimedia features to older vehicles.


  • · What KENWOOD systems have Wireless CarPlay?

    KENWOOD Wireless Apple CarPlay systems include:

    • DMX9724XDS - 10.1" Floating HD Capacitive Touchscreen Wireless and Wired Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, DAB+ System
    • DMX-F920DS - 9.0" Floating HD Capacitive Touchscreen Wireless and Wired Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, DAB+ System
    • DMX8021DABS - 7.0" Capacitive Touchscreen Wireless and Wired Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, DAB+ System
    • DMX80AXS - 9.0" Capacitive Touchscreen Wireless and Wired Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, FM System
    • DMX7525DABS - 6.8" Capacitive Touchscreen Wireless and Wired Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, DAB+ System
    • DMX6523DABS - 6.8" Capacitive Touchscreen Wireless and Wired Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, DAB+ System

    These touchscreen car stereos are designed for cars, vans, trucks, HGVs, campervans and motorhomes, bringing modern smartphone connectivity and advanced multimedia features to older vehicles.


  • · Can I charge my iPhone wirelessly?

    Yes, if your vehicle has a built-in wireless charging pad, you can use Wireless Apple CarPlay and charge your iPhone wirelessly at the same time. Simply place your phone on the charging pad while connected to your KENWOOD Wireless Apple CarPlay stereo.

    If your vehicle does not have wireless charging, you can still charge your iPhone while using Apple CarPlay by connecting an Apple USB cable directly to the KENWOOD multimedia system. This allows you to use Apple CarPlay and charge your phone at the same time during everyday driving, commuting and long journeys.


  • · Can I add Apple CarPlay to an older vehicle?

    Yes. Apple CarPlay can be added to many older cars, vans, campervans and motorhomes with a compatible KENWOOD touchscreen multimedia system. Upgrading an older vehicle with Wireless or Wired Apple CarPlay gives you modern features including navigation, hands-free calling, music streaming, DAB+ radio and smartphone connectivity.

    A KENWOOD Pro Install Dealer can advise you on the best Apple CarPlay stereo for your vehicle, along with any vehicle-specific fitting kits, fascia panels or interface leads required for your make, model and year. Many installations also retain original vehicle features, including steering wheel controls, parking sensors, factory cameras and climate control displays for a clean OEM-style finish.

    ► Find your nearest KENWOOD Pro Install Dealers


  • · Does Apple CarPlay use mobile data?

    Yes. Apple CarPlay uses your iPhone’s mobile data connection for features including navigation, live traffic updates, music streaming, messaging and voice assistants. Apps such as Apple Maps, Google Maps, Waze, Spotify and Apple Music all use mobile data while connected through Apple CarPlay.

    Standard phone calls and SMS messaging work through your normal mobile network connection. If you have downloaded offline maps or music to your iPhone, some features can still work with reduced mobile data usage. Data usage will vary depending on the apps and services you use while driving.


  • · What apps work with Apple CarPlay?

    Apple CarPlay supports a wide range of popular iPhone apps designed for driving, navigation, communication and entertainment. Compatible apps appear directly on your KENWOOD touchscreen display, giving you easier access while on the road.

    Popular Apple CarPlay apps include Apple Maps, Google Maps, Waze, Sygic and TomTom for navigation, along with Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, Tidal and Podcasts for entertainment. Drivers can also access messaging and calling apps, including Phone, Messages, WhatsApp and Siri voice control for hands-free communication.

    Parking apps such as RingGo and EV charging apps such as ChargePoint may also work with Apple CarPlay where supported by the app.

    Additional compatible apps include Audible, BBC Sounds, Digital Radio Stations, YouTube Music, TuneIn Radio and many other audio services. Apple regularly updates Apple CarPlay support, with more apps becoming compatible over time.


  • · Is Apple CarPlay safer than using a phone?

    Yes. Apple CarPlay is designed to help reduce driver distraction by giving you safer access to navigation, calls, messages and music through your vehicle’s touchscreen display and Siri voice control, rather than handling your phone while driving.

    In the UK and other countries, it is illegal to hold and use a mobile phone or any device capable of sending or receiving data while driving. Using Apple CarPlay through a compatible KENWOOD multimedia system allows drivers to access key smartphone features more safely using hands-free controls, steering wheel buttons and voice commands.

    Large touchscreen displays, clearer menus and voice control also help reduce the need to look down at your phone while driving. Many drivers upgrade to Apple CarPlay for safer hands-free driving, easier navigation and better everyday convenience on the road.


  • · Can I keep steering wheel controls?

    Yes. Many vehicles allow the original steering wheel controls to continue working after upgrading to a KENWOOD Apple CarPlay stereo. This allows you to control features such as volume, track selection, voice control and phone calls directly from the steering wheel for a safer and more convenient driving experience.

    A KENWOOD Pro Install Dealer can advise which steering wheel control interface is required for your make, model and year of vehicle. Many installations also retain original vehicle features, including parking sensors, reversing cameras and climate control displays for a clean OEM-style integration.

    ► Find your nearest KENWOOD Pro Install Dealers



  • · Does Apple CarPlay work in Campervans and Motorhomes?

    Yes. Apple CarPlay is a popular upgrade for campervans and motorhomes, helping drivers access navigation, music, calls and messages through a large touchscreen display while travelling. Many campervan owners upgrade to a KENWOOD Wireless Apple CarPlay system for easier long-distance driving, cleaner dashboard integration and improved everyday convenience on the road.

    KENWOOD campervan multimedia systems also support features including DAB+ digital radio, Bluetooth, reversing camera integration and multiple camera inputs, which are especially useful for larger vehicles. Selected models also support the Sygic navigation app designed for campervans and motorhomes, helping drivers avoid unsuitable roads, low bridges and restricted routes. A KENWOOD Pro Install Dealer can advise on the best Apple CarPlay system and installation solution for your campervan or motorhome.

    ► Find your nearest KENWOOD Pro Install Dealers


  • · What is the best Apple CarPlay stereo?

    The best Apple CarPlay stereo depends on your vehicle, dashboard layout and the features you want. Some drivers look for Wireless Apple CarPlay and DAB+ digital radio, while others may require reversing camera support, multiple camera inputs, HDMI connectivity, floating HD touchscreens or advanced audio tuning.

    KENWOOD offers a wide range of Wireless and Wired Apple CarPlay multimedia systems designed for cars, vans, campervans and motorhomes. Popular models include compact 6.8-inch touchscreen systems, premium floating HD displays and large-screen multimedia units with advanced connectivity features.

    A KENWOOD Pro Install Dealer can help recommend the best Apple CarPlay stereo based on your make, model and year of vehicle, along with your budget and feature requirements. They can also advise on fitting kits, vehicle integration, camera compatibility and OEM-style installation solutions for the best overall result.

    ► Find your nearest KENWOOD Pro Install Dealers


  • · How much does Apple CarPlay installation cost?

    Apple CarPlay installation costs vary depending on the type of vehicle, the multimedia system selected and any vehicle-specific installation parts required. Factors including fitting kits, steering wheel control interfaces, reversing camera integration and OEM feature retention can all affect the overall installation price.

    KENWOOD offers a wide range of Wireless and Wired Apple CarPlay stereos for cars, vans, campervans and motorhomes, from cost-effective touchscreen upgrades through to premium floating HD multimedia systems.

    A KENWOOD Pro Install Dealer can provide advice and a quotation based on your make, model and year of vehicle, along with your feature requirements and budget. Professional installation also helps ensure a clean OEM-style finish and compatibility with original vehicle features, including steering wheel controls, parking sensors and factory cameras.

    ► Find your nearest KENWOOD Pro Install Dealers