When it comes to car trips, many of us have fond memories of listening to the crackle of a medium wave radio. However, with the advent of wireless technology, it’s surprising that so many people still rely on older-generation radios. Fortunately, there are affordable solutions to upgrade your car’s audio system and enjoy great sound quality on the road.
Upgrading Your Car Stereo
Depending on the age of your car, a modest update to the audio system may be all you need to improve the sound. If your car stereo doesn’t have built-in Bluetooth, consider upgrading to a Bluetooth stereo. This upgrade will allow you to stream music from apps like Apple Music or Spotify while driving, making your car trips more enjoyable.
The Power of Apple’s CarPlay
Apple’s CarPlay is an in-dash software that can greatly enhance your car audio experience. It not only makes it easier to make hands-free calls and texts but also provides a user-friendly interface for car-oriented iPhone apps. With larger buttons and graphics, CarPlay offers a consistent and intuitive experience.
If your car doesn’t come with CarPlay, you can add it as an aftermarket in-dash infotainment system. Simply connect your iPhone to the system using a Lightning cable, and the CarPlay icon will appear, updating all compatible apps. It’s important to note that the screen is locked to discourage use while driving, ensuring your safety.
Some of the best apps to use with CarPlay include the Music app for accessing your iTunes library, the iPhone Fanatics podcast for entertainment during your commute, and Audiobooks for enjoying your favorite books from Apple’s iBook service. Additionally, iHeart Radio provides access to numerous radio stations, while MLB At Bat keeps baseball fans updated with scores and highlights.
Harnessing the Power of Android Auto
For Android users, there’s Google’s Android Auto. This software offers a Google Now-like interface on your car’s infotainment display through a USB connection. With Android Auto, you can play music, make calls, dictate messages, and even use Google Maps for navigation.
Unlike streaming via Bluetooth, audio from your phone is sent to your car’s speakers using USB, ensuring high-quality sound. Bluetooth hands-free technology handles phone calls seamlessly. Android Auto also supports third-party apps, much like Android on your phone.
The primary app for playing music on Android Auto is Google Play Music, which allows you to push tunes to your car stereo effortlessly. Other options include Pandora for continuous music, Spotify for access to your favorite songs or curated playlists, YouTube Music for niche tunes and remixes, TuneIn for thousands of radio stations, and Audible for audiobooks.
Making the Upgrade
Car stereos that come directly from the factory often don’t meet our audio expectations. Car manufacturers focus on making cars, not stereos. To improve your car audio experience, consider installing a new head unit and utilizing the best apps mentioned above. These small upgrades can make a world of difference in the overall sound quality and enjoyment of your car rides.
In conclusion, don’t settle for subpar audio in your car. Upgrade your car stereo and take advantage of innovative apps like CarPlay and Android Auto to enjoy a premium audio experience on the road. With improved sound quality and a wide range of entertainment options, your car trips will never be the same again.
