Explanation of Mazda Compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

New Mazdas now come with Apple CarPlay, but the brand offers a wide range of upgrades for models released a few years ago.

Phone mirroring technology in the form of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto has revolutionized the way we interact with in-car multimedia systems.

It also makes good sense, since so much can be done with our phones now, why should automakers even try to compete with Silicon Valley's software wizards? In addition, CarPlay and Android Auto are essentially safety features that reduce distractions and allow you to make important calls and text messages without taking your eyes off the road.

However, Mazda is a bit late with the kick. Not as late as key competitor Toyota, mind you, but Mazda has long held its own for its digitally controlled MZD Connect infotainment system (introduced in 2014) without phone mirroring.

However, faced with high demand, the brand decided not only to introduce CarPlay and Android Auto for new vehicles, but also to offer upgrades for all vehicles with existing MZD systems back in 2014.

This means that every Mazda with MZD, from the entry-level Mazda2 hatchback to the flagship CX-9, can be upgraded for a fixed price of $503.53 as of July 2020.

The Apple CarPlay and Android Auto modification is provided by the dealer and requires the installation of physical hardware. Pre-2018 vehicle owners wishing to inquire about the upgrade should do so with their local dealer.

It's worth noting that touch capabilities are limited or non-existent on many Mazda models, with even phone mirroring being controlled through the proprietary dialing system, a method some see as an annoying alternative to user interfaces designed with touch surfaces in mind.

The Mazda Phone Mirroring Upgrade Kit can be applied to some models as early as 2014.

If you might be considering buying a used Mazda and looking for details on whether there's an upgrade for the car you're considering - check out our list of model years and generations that either have equipment or could get an upgrade.

Mazda3 Mazda3 received an Apple CarPlay and Android Auto software update at the end of 2018. Vehicles built prior to this date can be upgraded from 2014 when the BM series was introduced if the variant in question has an MZD screen.

Mazda CX-5 – The CX-5 soon followed the BT-50 with an Apple CarPlay update along with its older brother the CX-9 in late 2018. Models prior to this can be upgraded if they have MZD Connect from 2014 model year (KE Series 2). year.

Mazda CX-3 The CX-3 received an update along with the 2019 facelift introduced in August 2018. Vehicles prior to this could be upgraded if they had the MZD Connect system installed, which was launched in the CX-3 in 2015.

Mazda CX-9 – The CX-9 large SUV received an Apple CarPlay update along with the midsize CX-5 from late 2018. Models released prior to this time may receive an update from the dealer as early as 2016 when the current generation TC was launched.

Mazda6 – The Mazda6 sedan and wagon have received a CarPlay and Android Auto update since late 2018, but can be retrofitted from 2014 when the GJ Series 2 was introduced.

Mazda2 The Mazda2 received Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in late 2018, although variants with the MZD multimedia screen could be retrofitted as early as 2015 when the DL series was introduced.

Mazda MX5 The MX-5 (which some overseas might call the Mazda Miata) gets Apple CarPlay and Android Auto along with the 2018 update. Vehicles with MZD screen equipment can be upgraded to the year the ND series was introduced - 2015. The Abarth 124 (introduced in 2016), which shares the basics and multimedia system with the ND MX-5, can also be upgraded with help from Mazda. parts kit, but this method is unofficial and not approved by Fiat.

Mazda BT-50 Oddly, the Ford Ranger-based BT-50 ute was the first Mazda to receive Apple CarPlay and Android Auto updates in May 2018, though mostly because it came standard with a third-party Alpine head unit rather than a branded one. MZD. Connect the system. When it comes to retrofitting Apple CarPlay to BT-50 before, you can use a third party device yourself.

Mazda5 The Mazda5 was the brand's driving force (replacing the Mazda Premacy once offered in Australia). While there are a few drab imported examples on the roads in Australia, the slow-selling minivan was discontinued in 2018 and has never shared the styling, interior or infotainment system of the current lineup. Thus, phone mirroring technology was never available on these models.