Volvo Gives XC90 CarPlay Preview

Volvo Cars released several photos and a video showing a preview of how drivers of its 2015 XC90 may interact with the vehicle using Apple's CarPlay interface.

CarPlay allows users of iPhones, iPads, and iPods to connect their devices to the vehicle and use the XC90's large center console screen to make calls, listen to music, send messages, launch navigation, or stream media. CarPlay brings Apple's iOS operating system into the vehicle.

An iOS device's icons will appear on the XC90 screen alongside Volvo content. Drivers are given the option of subscribing to third-party apps such as Spotify.

"iPhone users will feel completely at home in a new Volvo," said Håkan Samuelsson, president and CEO of Volvo Cars. "We have created a wholly-integrated user experience in our large portrait-oriented touch screen that takes the in-car mobile device experience to a new level. That, coupled with the obvious driver safety benefits of an advanced voice control system like Siri, made Apple a perfect match for Volvo."

On Monday, Apple announced that six automakers including Volvo would incorporate CarPlay into upcoming models, while 12 others would add it on future models. Volvo plans to introduce the 2015 XC90 luxury SUV later this year. View Volvo's CarPlay video here.