BY THE CHRONICLE STAFF

For millions of drivers, Apple CarPlay has become an essential part of the daily commute.

Whether it's getting directions, streaming music or sending hands-free text messages, the system offers a safer and more familiar way to use an iPhone behind the wheel. But many drivers aren't taking advantage of some of CarPlay's most useful features.

Technology experts recently highlighted several built-in CarPlay tools that can make driving easier, more personalized, and less distracting.

One of the simplest upgrades is customizing the CarPlay home screen. Users can choose which apps appear on their vehicle's display and arrange them in the order they use most often.

Unused apps can be removed from the interface, making it easier to find navigation, music, or messaging apps with fewer taps.

Drivers can also personalize CarPlay by changing the system wallpaper. While Apple doesn't allow personal photos to be used as backgrounds, it does include a selection of built-in designs that let users give the interface a fresh look. Apple periodically adds new wallpaper options through software updates.

Another feature many people overlook is Driving Focus. When enabled, the mode automatically limits notifications while driving, helping reduce distractions. Users can allow calls or messages from specific contacts while silencing everything else until the trip is over.

CarPlay also includes Announce Messages, which allows Siri to read incoming text messages aloud without requiring drivers to look at the screen. After hearing the message, users can dictate a response using only their voice, helping keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.

For families and road trips, Apple has also expanded SharePlay support in CarPlay. Passengers can contribute songs to the vehicle's music queue from their own iPhones, allowing everyone to take turns choosing the soundtrack without passing a phone around the car.

Drivers also have the choice between wired and wireless CarPlay. Wireless systems offer the convenience of automatically connecting when entering the vehicle, while wired connections may provide more consistent performance and keep the iPhone charged during longer trips. Which option works best often depends on the vehicle and the driver's preferences.

Another useful setting is automatic Dark Mode, which changes CarPlay's appearance based on the time of day or surrounding light conditions. The darker interface can reduce glare during nighttime driving and make information easier to read.

Apple continues to expand CarPlay with new capabilities through regular iPhone software updates, and recent versions have added support for AI-powered voice assistants, improved widgets and enhanced media controls.

As more automakers integrate the platform into their vehicles, CarPlay is becoming more than just a phone projection system — it's evolving into a central hub for navigation, communication, entertainment, and vehicle information.

For iPhone owners who already use CarPlay, taking a few minutes to explore these settings could make every drive a little safer, more convenient and more enjoyable. ■