If your car has Apple CarPlay, you’ve already got a powerful tool for making your drives smoother and a lot more fun. Whether you want better directions, easier ways to send messages, or just great music for the road, there’s an app for that. In this guide, we’re breaking down the best Apple CarPlay apps that people actually use and love. Think of it as your shortcut to a better driving experience.
Meal planning might not be the first thing you think of when it comes to driving, but apps like ReciMe can still play a helpful role in your daily routine. We built ReciMe as a handy tool to use before you hit the road. You can quickly organize your favorite recipes, build grocery lists, and set up meal plans so you’re not scrambling to figure out dinner after a long day out. If you like keeping things simple and organized both on the road and at home, download ReciMe and give it a try in your daily routine.
1. PlugShare
PlugShare is an EV charging station locator app that works with Apple CarPlay. It shows charging stations across various networks and allows users to filter them based on plug type, charging speed, and availability. The app includes information from a wide range of charging providers like Tesla Supercharger, ChargePoint, EVgo, and more.
It’s built with a community-driven approach, meaning users can submit reviews, photos, and report station status. Drivers can also use the trip planning feature to map out routes with charging stops along the way. The CarPlay integration allows users to view nearby stations, access bookmarks, and follow planned routes directly from the car’s display.
Useful Features:
- Filters stations by plug type, charging speed, and provider
- Trip planner helps organize charging stops along a route
- Includes station reviews and photos submitted by users
- CarPlay access for browsing and navigating to nearby chargers
Best Choice For:
- Drivers of electric vehicles looking for charging options
- Users who prefer seeing detailed station information before arrival
- EV owners planning routes with multiple charging stops
2. Spotify
Spotify is a music and podcast streaming app that supports Apple CarPlay, allowing users to access their playlists, albums, and podcasts directly from their vehicle’s display. It offers both free and premium versions, with features like curated playlists, on-demand playback, and podcast subscriptions. Through CarPlay, users can control their music and browse content with simplified navigation tailored for driving.
The app includes a large catalog of songs and shows, personalized playlists based on listening habits, and support for devices beyond just phones – including smart speakers and in-car systems. CarPlay users can view recently played content, navigate playlists, and control playback without needing to touch their phone.
Useful Features:
- Access to over a wide range of songs and podcast titles
- Personalized playlists like Discover Weekly and Release Radar
- Option to download content for offline use with Premium
- CarPlay support for browsing and controlling music or podcast playback
Best Choice For:
- Drivers who want a mix of music and podcasts in one app
- Users who rely on playlists for road trips or commutes
- People who use multiple devices and want a consistent music experience across all of them
3. ChargePoint
ChargePoint is an EV charging app that helps users locate and access electric vehicle charging stations across a broad network. The app includes tools for searching real-time charger availability, filtering by connector type, and viewing details such as pricing and charging history. It supports a wide range of public and home charging activities.
With CarPlay integration, drivers can search for nearby stations and access charging information directly from their vehicle’s display. This is helpful for trip planning or spontaneous charging needs while on the road.
Useful Features:
- Real-time charger availability and station details
- Filtering options for vehicle compatibility and charger type
- Apple CarPlay support for on-the-go access
- Payment and session tracking in one app
Best Choice For:
- EV drivers looking for nearby public chargers
- People managing both home and public charging
- Users needing network-wide compatibility with roaming partners
4. Overcast
Overcast is a podcast player app that works with Apple CarPlay, allowing drivers to listen to podcasts while staying focused on the road. It offers a simple interface with tools designed specifically for people who regularly listen to spoken audio. The app gives users full control over playback settings and playlist organization, without adding unnecessary complexity.
With CarPlay integration, Overcast makes it easy to pick up where you left off, browse your library, or queue up specific episodes. Features like Smart Speed and Voice Boost improve the listening experience by adjusting volume levels and shortening silence without distorting voices. You can also create custom playlists and set playback priorities for different shows.
Useful Features:
- Smart Speed trims silence without speeding up the voice unnaturally
- Voice Boost evens out volume across all shows
- Custom playlists with filter and priority controls
- CarPlay support for easy access to podcast playback in the car
Best Choice For:
- Podcast listeners who want detailed control over how and what they hear
- Drivers who like organizing episodes into playlists by topic or priority
- Users looking for a clean, ad-free experience with strong privacy controls
5. Weather on the Way
Weather on the Way is a route-based weather app designed for road travel. It combines weather forecasting with navigation to show what kind of conditions you’ll encounter along your specific route, at the times you’ll be driving. This helps users make informed decisions about when to leave and what path to take, especially when weather could impact driving safety.
The app supports Apple CarPlay, allowing drivers to access forecasts, radar, and alerts directly from their car’s display. It includes travel modes for driving, cycling, and hiking. While some advanced features like long-range trip planning and radar are part of a paid tier, the core features are available for free.
Useful Features:
- Weather forecasts timed to your location along a route
- Live radar for snow and rain, viewable through CarPlay
- Set departure times up to 7 days in advance
- Add custom waypoints and stop durations for accurate planning
Best Choice For:
- Drivers planning road trips through areas with changing weather
- People looking to avoid storms, snow, or other disruptions on the road
- Users who want a weather app focused on routes, not just single locations
6. WhatsApp
WhatsApp is a messaging app that offers text, voice, and video communication across devices, including support for Apple CarPlay. Through CarPlay, users can send and receive voice messages, listen to unread messages, and respond using voice commands. This hands-free access makes it easier to stay in touch while on the road without taking your eyes off the road or hands off the wheel.
The app syncs messages across devices and supports group chats, file sharing, and calls. While it promotes end-to-end encryption for privacy, it also collects various types of user data for its parent company. WhatsApp remains widely used for international messaging and is often pre-installed by users who want simple, cross-platform communication.
Useful Features:
- CarPlay integration for hands-free messaging and voice responses
- End-to-end encrypted messaging for supported chats
- Voice and video calls, including group call functionality
- Supports sending images, documents, and location sharing
Best Choice For:
- Drivers who want to listen to and reply to messages safely using voice
- People who need to stay in touch with family or friends while traveling
- Users communicating internationally across different phone platforms
7. Libby
Libby is a free app that connects with your local library to let you borrow audiobooks, ebooks, and magazines using just a library card. Once you’re signed in, you can browse your library’s digital catalog, borrow items instantly, and download or stream them on your device. For drivers, Libby supports Apple CarPlay, allowing you to listen to borrowed audiobooks right from your car’s dashboard.
The app includes features for both reading and listening, with a clean interface that helps users manage their library loans, tags, and bookmarks. You can sync your progress across devices, customize playback speed, and even set a sleep timer. It’s designed to work with multiple library cards, so users can maximize their access to content across different locations.
Useful Features:
- CarPlay integration for listening to library audiobooks while driving
- Borrow and manage books across multiple library accounts
- Audiobook features include speed control, bookmarks, and sleep timer
- Offline access for downloaded content
Best Choice For:
- Drivers who want to listen to audiobooks for free using their library card
- Users who prefer borrowing books instead of buying them
- People who manage multiple library memberships in one app
8. Google Maps
Google Maps is a navigation and location app that offers real-time driving directions, traffic updates, and local business info. With Apple CarPlay support, users can access turn-by-turn navigation, search for places, and get live rerouting updates directly on their car’s display. The app covers driving, walking, biking, and public transportation, making it a versatile choice for getting around.
It also includes features for planning trips, previewing locations using Street View, and saving favorite spots. When connected to CarPlay, drivers can use voice commands to search destinations or get directions, and the map display adjusts with traffic data to suggest faster routes when needed.
Useful Features:
- Real-time traffic alerts and rerouting suggestions
- Search and navigate to places using voice or touchscreen
- Offline maps for areas with limited signal
- Integration with Apple CarPlay for on-screen navigation
Best Choice For:
- Drivers looking for up-to-date directions with traffic updates
- People who rely on local business info and reviews
- Users who need a navigation tool that works across multiple travel modes
9. Waze
Waze is a navigation app that uses real-time data from other drivers to provide up-to-date information about road conditions, traffic, and potential hazards. It works with Apple CarPlay, so drivers can access turn-by-turn directions, report incidents, and receive alerts directly from their car’s display. Unlike traditional GPS apps, Waze focuses on community-based updates, which means users help each other by sharing what’s happening on the road in real time.
The app is designed to make driving more efficient by helping users avoid delays, accidents, and other road issues. It includes features like speed limit notifications, police location alerts, and rerouting based on live traffic data. It also offers lane guidance, toll info, and integration with fuel stations and EV chargers along your route.
Useful Features:
- Real-time hazard and traffic alerts from other drivers
- Turn-by-turn directions with automatic rerouting for delays
- Police, camera, and speed trap notifications
- CarPlay support for navigation and incident reporting
Best Choice For:
- Drivers who want to stay ahead of traffic or road hazards
- People who prefer community-based driving updates
- Users who drive in areas with frequent congestion or road work
10. Pocket Casts
Pocket Casts is a podcast player designed for users who want more control over how they listen and organize their shows. It connects with Apple CarPlay, making it easier to browse, stream, or manage your queue directly from your car’s dashboard. Whether you’re subscribed to a few shows or have a long list of favorites, the app offers flexible tools to customize your listening experience.
The interface is built around playlists, filters, and syncing, allowing users to pick up where they left off across devices. Pocket Casts also includes options like silence trimming and volume adjustment, which are aimed at helping listeners fine-tune each episode. It’s made for people who listen often and want to manage their podcasts in a way that fits their own routine.
Useful Features:
- Custom filters and queues for organizing episodes
- CarPlay support with playback controls and browsing
- Options for silence trimming, volume boost, and variable playback speed
- Cross-device sync for subscriptions and listening history
Best Choice For:
- Listeners who subscribe to multiple podcasts
- Users who want to customize how episodes are played and organized
- People who switch between devices and want everything synced automatically
11. SpotHero
SpotHero is a parking app designed to help drivers find and reserve spots in advance across many major U.S. cities. With Apple CarPlay integration, it lets users search, book, and pay for parking directly from the dashboard, making it more convenient to park without pulling out your phone. The app covers thousands of garages, lots, and valets and can be used for everything from daily commutes to event parking.
The process is simple: enter your destination and time, choose from available spots, and follow the directions to park. SpotHero can be used for one-time reservations or for booking monthly parking. It also supports business profiles and expense tracking for commuters. The app offers a time-saving option for those looking to avoid circling the block for a space.
Useful Features:
- Reserve parking in advance with Apple CarPlay access
- Compare nearby garages and rates in real time
- Separate business and personal parking expenses
- Supports monthly parking and commuter benefits cards
Best Choice For:
- Drivers in busy urban areas or near airports
- Commuters who park regularly for work
- People who want to avoid searching for parking on arrival
12. YouTube Music
YouTube Music is a streaming app that offers access to a wide variety of music content, including official tracks, remixes, live performances, and covers. It’s designed to be more than just a place to listen – the app also focuses on helping users discover new artists and songs with curated playlists and personalized recommendations. You can explore music by genre, mood, or activity, and organize everything in your own library.
The app works with Apple CarPlay, so you can control playback, browse your library, and stream music safely while driving. YouTube Music also supports offline playback. It provides a flexible way to listen whether you’re in the car, at home, or on the go.
Useful Features:
- Personalized mixes based on listening habits
- Access to rare music content like remixes and live sets
- CarPlay integration for hands-free playback control
- Option to switch between music audio and video versions
Best Choice For:
- Listeners who want both official music and user-uploaded tracks
- People who use YouTube often and want an integrated experience
- Drivers who like controlling playlists from their dashboard
13. NPR
The NPR app brings together national news, local updates, and public radio shows into one platform. It offers a continuous audio stream that includes headlines, feature stories, and full episodes from NPR and local stations. Users can also listen live to their local NPR station and access a library of past programs and podcasts.
With Apple CarPlay integration, the app allows in-car access to streaming content, including live radio and on-demand shows. This setup helps make it easier to catch up on news or hear current affairs programs while on the road.
Useful Features:
- Stream national and local public radio stations
- Access full NPR and local podcast episodes
- Browse curated story playlists
- Use the app with CarPlay and Apple Watch
Best Choice For:
- Staying updated with national and local news
- Listening to public radio programming on the go
- Finding a mix of news, culture, and in-depth reporting through CarPlay
14. Telegram Messenger
Telegram is a messaging app that can be used through Apple CarPlay to stay connected while driving without needing to pick up your phone. It syncs across devices, so anything sent or received while you’re on the road will be available later on your phone or computer. With CarPlay integration, you can listen to voice messages and have texts read aloud using Siri, helping you stay informed without taking your eyes off the road.
The app supports a wide range of media formats and has strong privacy controls, which can be helpful for people who need to exchange information quickly and securely. Whether you’re coordinating plans, checking in with someone, or managing a group chat while commuting, Telegram offers basic in-car communication features without too much distraction.
Useful Features:
- Works with Apple CarPlay to access messages hands-free
- Syncs chats across all devices without needing your phone connected
- Supports voice messages that can be played through the car’s system
- Message preview and reply support using Siri
Best Choice For:
- Drivers who want simple voice-based messaging access
- People who need synced communication across devices
- Users who prefer messaging apps with privacy controls while commuting
15. Audible
Audible is an audio entertainment app that offers audiobooks, podcasts, and original audio series. With Apple CarPlay support, drivers can listen to their chosen titles through their car’s infotainment system while keeping their hands on the wheel. Whether it’s a long drive or a short commute, Audible allows users to continue with their current audiobook or explore something new without needing to pick up the phone.
The app includes access to a wide range of content, from fiction and non-fiction books to wellness programs and sleep stories. Downloads are available for offline playback, and playback controls like skip, pause, and speed adjustment work seamlessly through CarPlay. For users subscribed to Premium Plus, one title per month can be added to their permanent library.
Useful Features:
- Supports Apple CarPlay for hands-free listening
- Download audiobooks and podcasts for offline use
- Sleep timer to stop playback automatically
- Option to adjust playback speed through the app or CarPlay
Best Choice For:
- Long-distance drivers looking to listen to books or podcasts
- Users who want audio entertainment while commuting
- People interested in wellness, storytelling, or educational content through audio
16. BBC: World News
The BBC app offers global news coverage, live updates, and on-demand audio content. Through CarPlay support, users can stream BBC Radio or listen to podcasts like The Global Story while driving. This setup helps drivers stay updated with current events, politics, and other topics without needing to check their phone screens.
In addition to live radio, the app includes options to download and play podcast episodes offline. News updates and top stories are refreshed frequently, and playback features like pause and sleep timer are accessible through CarPlay controls. This app is aimed at users who want access to verified global news and in-depth reporting during their commutes.
Useful Features:
- CarPlay integration for hands-free access to live radio and podcasts
- Option to download BBC podcast episodes for offline listening
- Sleep timer and playback control for audio content
- Regular news updates with global and local stories
Best Choice For:
- Drivers who want to stay informed with international news
- Listeners interested in BBC radio and podcast programming
- Users who prefer a mix of live updates and on-demand content while commuting
17. TuneIn Radio
TuneIn Radio offers access to a wide range of live AM/FM radio stations, as well as sports broadcasts, news, podcasts, and music content. The app includes support for CarPlay, which lets you stream audio from many radio stations while driving. Users can follow live events, catch breaking news, or enjoy music and podcasts through the in-car interface.
The app works with connected vehicles and smart devices, allowing for seamless playback control on the road. Whether you’re looking to follow an NFL game, listen to BBC World Service, or tune into your favorite morning show, TuneIn makes it available during your drive. Premium subscribers can access ad-free news, commercial-free music, and exclusive sports coverage.
Useful Features:
- CarPlay integration for live radio, sports, and podcasts
- Access to global AM/FM stations and internet-only streams
- Live coverage of events like NHL, NFL, and news channels
- Supports Alexa, Google Home, and in-car systems like Tesla and Volvo
Best Choice For:
- Drivers who want access to live radio from around the world
- Sports fans looking to stream games and analysis on the go
- Listeners who prefer an all-in-one app for news, music, and podcasts
18. Bookmate
Bookmate is an app that gives users access to ebooks and audiobooks in multiple languages, available with both free and paid subscription options. The platform supports reading and listening on the go, including in the car through Apple CarPlay. Users can browse curated collections or upload their own files, and Bookmate syncs progress across devices for a continuous experience.
The app also includes social features that allow users to see what friends are reading, share notes, and follow recommendations. While offline reading is supported, some books may require specific subscription tiers. Bookmate caters to readers and listeners who want to explore different genres or languages within one app.
Useful Features:
- CarPlay support for audiobooks and playback controls
- Multilingual catalog with ebooks and audiobooks in many languages
- Option to upload personal book files in .epub and .fb2 formats
- Social discovery features like friend activity and shared quotes
Best Choice For:
- Drivers who want audiobook access in different languages
- Users looking to manage ebooks and audiobooks in one place
- People who enjoy discovering books through curated lists and friend recommendations
19. Scribd
Scribd is a document-sharing app focused on giving access to a large library of user-uploaded files, including manuals, government records, academic papers, and niche materials. The app serves users looking for detailed or uncommon sources of information. Scribd content can be synced across multiple devices and used with offline access after download.
The app includes CarPlay support, making it possible to listen to compatible documents or use voice controls to access saved items during commutes. Scribd also connects to Everand and SlideShare as part of the same subscription, allowing users to access ebooks, audiobooks, and presentations from related platforms.
Useful Features:
- Access to a wide range of documents and manuals
- CarPlay support for hands-free listening to certain content
- Offline download options for saved files
- Subscription includes access to related apps like Everand and SlideShare
Best Choice For:
- Users who need access to technical or niche documents
- Drivers who want to review saved content while on the road
- People combining document reading with ebook or presentation access
20. Starbucks
The Starbucks app lets users place orders ahead, manage payments, and earn rewards. While it isn’t designed for audio or navigation use, the app is compatible with CarPlay, primarily offering quick access to location-based features while driving. Through CarPlay, users can find nearby stores and check store hours or amenities like drive-thru availability.
The app includes options for in-app payments, saving favorite items, and sending digital gift cards. While not a traditional CarPlay app for media or messaging, its integration can support quick stops by helping locate stores mid-commute or on longer road trips.
Useful Features:
- CarPlay location integration for finding nearby Starbucks
- In-app ordering with saved favorites and recent purchases
- Digital wallet for payments and tipping
- Rewards system that accumulates points toward free items
Best Choice For:
- Commuters looking to locate and stop at Starbucks stores
- Users who want to order ahead without using their phone at the wheel
- Drivers managing regular purchases and loyalty points on the go
21. Microsoft Teams
Microsoft Teams is a communication and collaboration app used for work, education, and community groups. It brings together chat, video calls, file sharing, calendar management, and task planning into one platform. The app supports real-time messaging and meetings, as well as structured communication through teams and channels.
With CarPlay support, Teams offers limited functionality while driving, such as joining scheduled audio calls. This allows users to stay in touch during commutes or travel without needing to interact directly with their phone.
Useful Features:
- Audio call support via CarPlay for scheduled meetings
- Chat and video communication with individuals or groups
- Integrated task lists, file sharing, and calendar tools
- Access to both personal and work accounts
Best Choice For:
- Professionals who need to join meetings while driving
- Remote workers staying connected during travel
- Users coordinating projects across teams and devices
22. inRoute
inRoute is a route planning app that combines navigation with weather and road condition data. It allows users to create customized driving routes using factors like elevation, road curves, and forecasted weather. The app supports route optimization, but also lets users chart their own path with detailed controls over each segment.
With CarPlay support, inRoute gives drivers turn-by-turn directions and alerts about weather conditions directly from their dashboard. It’s designed for longer or more complex trips, offering tools like layover planning, fuel stop searches, and RV-specific routing when subscribed to the Pro version.
Useful Features:
- CarPlay navigation with voice guidance and weather alerts
- Route creation based on weather, road type, and elevation
- Tools to find fuel, lodging, and services along the route
- RV routing with customizable vehicle specs
Best Choice For:
- Drivers planning long-distance or multi-stop road trips
- People who want to avoid bad weather or tough terrain
- RV travelers needing height or weight-specific routing options
Conclusion
Apple CarPlay opens up a safer and more convenient way to use your iPhone while driving, and the right apps can make a big difference in your daily routine or road trip experience. Whether you’re navigating with Waze, catching up on podcasts with Overcast, grabbing a coffee with the Starbucks app, or finding an EV charger with ChargePoint, CarPlay brings helpful tools right to your dashboard. The key is to choose the apps that fit your needs and driving habits best. Try a few, see what works for you, and keep your focus where it matters most – on the road.