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Apple confirms CarPlay support for aftermarket systems

Apple's Web site now lists support for Alpine and Pioneer car audio and video systems as coming soon.

Lance Whitney Contributing Writer
Lance Whitney is a freelance technology writer and trainer and a former IT professional. He's written for Time, CNET, PCMag, and several other publications. He's the author of two tech books--one on Windows and another on LinkedIn.
Lance Whitney
Apple CarPlay demo
At the 2014 Geneva auto show, Mercedes-Benz demonstrated Apple CarPlay. Wayne Cunningham/CNET

Consumers who want to add Apple's CarPlay technology to their existing vehicles may soon get the chance.

Now at the bottom of Apple's CarPlay Web site is a notice that reads: "you'll soon be able to add CarPlay to your current car with an aftermarket system," listing Alpine and Pioneer as the two manufacturers.

Apple's confirmation comes on top of an announcement from Alpine on Tuesday that its aftermarket infotainment systems will support CarPlay. Pioneer's Web site also now touts CarPlay "for the vehicle you already own."

Compatible with the iPhone 5, 5S, and 5C, CarPlay lets you access your phone's various features directly through the dashboard or by chatting with Siri. You can make phone calls, play music, and access directions, among other tasks. Those same features will be available through aftermarket systems, according to Alpine's announcement.

For those of you who plan to buy a new car this year, CarPlay will be available in models from Ferrari, Honda, Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz, and Volvo. Apple promises future support for a range of other automakers, including Ford, Nissan, Toyota, Subaru, and Jaguar.

Apple demoes CarPlay in a Mercedes-Benz (pictures)

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(Via 9to5Mac)