Kia Wireless Apple Carplay/Android Auto
Among the many great features you’ll find in several 2021 Kia models are tools for easier and faster smartphone connectivity with your infotainment display system. Kia is pleased to offer wireless connectivity for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on many 2021 K5, Sorento, and Seltos vehicles! Now, whenever you get into your vehicle, your phone can automatically connect without you having to deal with a lot of wires and plugs.
New to Apple CarPlay or Android Auto?
If it’s been a hot minute since you’ve shopped for a new car, you may be surprised by how far vehicle displays have come. For example, many Kias have 8 inch or larger displays that make navigation a breeze. You can interact with your phone on that big display, regardless of whether you’re an Apple or an Android fan. Both offer a myriad of tools to make communicating and driving safer, but Apple CarPlay is only available for iPhones and Android Auto is only available for Android phones.
These tools are very similar, meant to provide equivalent functionality regardless of your platform. There are a few minor differences, like that Apple CarPlay offers Siri, where Android Auto is powered by Google Assistant, but for the most part, many apps are very similar, if not exactly the same. You’ll find tools like:
- Maps for navigation. Both systems can utilize Google Maps, though Android Auto does a much better job with it, since it’s native to this software galaxy. Apple CarPlay has an equivalent mapping system that’s native for its devices, though, so have no fear.
- Communication. Not only can you access a variety of messaging platforms, your phone book and telephone apps are ready for action though both CarPlay and Android Auto. Using voice control to make your important phone calls is a much safer alternative than fiddling with a telephone, even in stop and go commuter traffic.
- Organization. Need to use some of that time in the morning to get organized for your day? Don’t worry! You can access your calendar or listen to an audiobook as you drive to and from the office, gym, or to and from lunch.
- Current Events. Trying to stay up with current events? Your car can keep you on top of all the latest headlines with compatible apps for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto that deliver both news and podcasts that keep you in touch with an ever-changing world.
- Music. Looking for some new music to vibe to while you’re driving to and from the office? Choose from a myriad of popular music apps already on your phone to explore old favorites and new releases with your voice alone!
How to Connect to CarPlay or Android Auto
Connecting your phone is simple! First, turn Bluetooth and WiFi on in your phone’s settings.
Next, press the Setup key on the display unit. Choose Device Connection Settings, then Phone Projection, then Add New.
Now you can go to your phone and select your vehicle from the Bluetooth devices menu. Accept the pairing request and your phone is connected to your car! Your car’s display will walk you through the rest of the setup options.
Please note that USB connectivity is still available for Android Auto users, but it’s no longer supported for Apple CarPlay.
What’s Next for Kia Connectivity?
The Kias of the future promise even more connectivity, easier ways to stay in touch with friends and family, and better methods of charging your phone. In fact, there’s even talk of wireless smartphone charging coming to future models!
Posted in: Kia Features
Tagged: android auto, Apple Carplay
Do you have a question or idea you would like to be featured in a blog post?
Fill out this simple form.
Are you a car enthusiast or novice and want to feature your car story on our blog?
Fill out this form to be featured on our blog.
Search Our Blog
Dealership Info
Phone Numbers:
Main: 785-856-8700
Sales: 785-856-8700
Service: 785-856-8700
Parts: 785-856-8700
Allstate: 785-856-8708
Sales & Allstate Hours:
Mon - Thu 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Fri - Sat 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sun Closed
Service & Parts Hours:
Mon - Thu 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Fri - Sat 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sun Closed
Blog Categories
- 2016 Kia Models
- 2017 Kia Models
- 2018 Kia Models
- 2020 Kia Models
- 2021 Kia Models
- 2022 Kia Models
- 2023 Kia Models
- Events
- How to Guides
- Kansas City Recreation
- Kia Accessories
- Kia Carnival
- Kia Features
- Kia Forte
- Kia News
- Kia Niro
- Kia Optima
- Kia Sedona
- Kia Seltos
- Kia Sorento
- Kia Soul
- Kia Sportage
- Kia Stinger
- Kia Telluride
- Kia UVO
- Lawrence Kia Sale
- Lawrence Recreation
- Maintenance
- New Kia
- Photo Contest
- Remote Start
- Service
Hi does the latest model kia cerato gt connect to a android phone wireless
Yes the Cerato, also known as the Forte in the United States, has wireless Android Auto on the base model!
Does the 2021 KIA Seltos connect to Apple CarPlay wirelessly? Or, do I have to use a Lightning cable with USB A to connect to my Seltos to use Apple CarPlay?
Yes it should! We have added a video in this blog post that shows step-by-step instructions on how to connect your iPhone wirelessly.
When will the 2022 K5 GT-line get it’s software update for wireless carplay? As of now I can only access it through wired USB.
Hi Clayton, The update has been released. You can either bring your car into the dealership to have the update installed or you can follow these instructions from Kia!
Do you have a date set for when the 2022 K5 GT Line will be updated to support Bluetooth carplay? As of now it only works with a wired connection.
Hi Clayton, The update has been released. You can either bring your car into the dealership to have the update installed or you can follow these instructions from Kia!