Apple’s iOS 17.4 Features New Instrument Cluster For CarPlay

Apple has released its latest software update, iOS 17.4, which includes a new instrument cluster feature for CarPlay, along with new emojis for all users. The update has been largely tailored to comply with the new Digital Markets Act (DMA) rules in the European Union.

“In iOS 17.4, with supported CarPlay vehicles, Apple Maps will present a new instrument cluster experience with information about upcoming manoeuvres. Users will be able to swap the desired display type between the main and instrument cluster screen by tapping the map configuration button on the upper right of the Maps main screen,” Apple states in the iOS 17.4 release.

The new CarPlay feature allows users of supported vehicles to view a new instrument cluster experience within Apple Maps, providing information about upcoming manoeuvres. Users can easily swap between the main screen and the instrument cluster display by tapping the map configuration button located in the upper right corner of the Maps main screen.

With this update, Apple Maps offers two ways of viewing trips in CarPlay. The first is a street-level view of the road ahead, while the second is a sky-level view of the overall trip progress. For vehicles equipped with single displays, CarPlay enables users to toggle between these two views seamlessly.

In cars featuring both an infotainment system screen and a digital instrument cluster, such as the BMW 5 Series, the secondary display can now show Apple Maps navigation. Prior to this update, the main display presented the street-level view, while the instrument cluster displayed an overview of the navigation. The display behind the steering wheel can now also present turn-by-turn directions, rather than just an overview.

Despite the setback of the cancelation of the Apple Car project, with iOS 17.4 update, Apple demonstrates a commitment to enhancing the driving experience for its users, particularly those with CarPlay-supported vehicles.