Apple has learnt to understand cars: CarPlay Ultra on the Aston Martin DBX707
The collaboration between Aston Martin and Apple in the development of CarPlay Ultra was a rare example of synergy between the automotive industry and the IT giant: both sides learnt new things, from regulatory subtleties to interface logic. The result was not just an interface, but an almost hybrid operating system inside the car.
Mutual learning
According to Aston Martin, the CarPlay Ultra development process was a learning experience for both parties. Apple learned how to take into account international safety standards (right down to the regulated display colours), and Aston Martin learned how Apple builds interfaces based on user logic.
Customisation by template
Apple offered the carmaker a "blank canvas" - a template without constraints. The Aston Martin team decided for themselves what features and menu items were needed. Many customisations, like Bowers Wilkins audio stage control, are now built right into CarPlay Ultra without leaving the ecosystem.
Themes and customisation
CarPlay Ultra gets its own visual theme from Aston Martin, as well as access to a number of ready-made themes from Apple. Drivers can change colour palettes, wallpaper and dashboard display style - in the DBX707 this is done via a touchpad on the centre tunnel.
Dual Screen Navigation
A feature that's sure to be appreciated by route fans: Apple Maps can now be displayed on both the dashboard and the media system - in different orientations and scales. Can't make out a turn? Look where you can see it best.
Instant response
Testers note: CarPlay Ultra works "as it should" - smoothly, without bugs, and wirelessly even with the iPhone disconnected from USB. Minimalism in UX plus engineering stability is a rare combination.
Source: The Verge
