Iwaki, Japan — Alpine announced plans to offer CarPlay-equipped aftermarket head units in the fall in the U.S. and Europe.
Model numbers and pricing will be announced at the time of launch.
Motorists will be able to control CarPlay functions on a cable-connected iPhone 5, 5s or 5c running iOS 7 from a large, in-dash touchscreen. Users will also be able to control functions via Siri. Controllable functions include making calls, using Apple Maps, accessing stored or streamed music, and sending and receiving messages. Siri will read back messages, and users will be able to dictate responses.
“For more than a decade, we have worked with Apple to produce products that integrate their technology into our car entertainment and information products,” said Hirofumi Morioka, Alpine’s senior director and chief technology officer. “Our new CarPlay-enabled products represent the next step in providing users a seamless iPhone experience in the vehicle.”
Earlier today, Pioneer announced plans for early-summer firmware upgrades to five NEX head units to add CarPlay. Clarion has also revealed plans to offer aftermarket CarPlay but hasn’t released a schedule.