When it comes to maximizing your in-car experience, having the best CarPlay apps at your fingertips can make all the difference. Modern drivers demand more than just a basic navigation system; they seek convenience, connectivity, and entertainment during their journeys.

To meet these demands, we’ve curated a list of the 10 best CarPlay apps that cater to a range of needs and preferences.

Drive Smarter with the 10 Best CarPlay Apps

1. Apple Maps

Apple Maps is a comprehensive navigation and exploration app designed to enhance your travel experience while prioritizing privacy.

Main Features:

• Multi-stop routing for planning complex trips.
• Integration with Wallet for managing travel cards.
• Public transport fares in select cities.
• Voice-guided navigation for driving, cycling, and walking.
• Real-time traffic updates and incident reports.
• Speed and red-light camera alerts.
• Cycling directions with elevation and busy street considerations.
• Augmented reality for immersive walking directions in select cities.
• Indoor maps for malls and airports.

Pros:

• User-friendly interface with privacy protection.
• Multi-modal navigation options.
• Real-time updates and comprehensive traffic data.

Cons:

• Some users report less accurate directions compared to competitors.
• Limited public transport information in certain areas.

Best For: Travelers and commuters looking for a reliable, all-in-one navigation app with enhanced privacy features.

Pricing: Free.

2. NBA: Live Games & Scores

The NBA App offers unparalleled access to live games, scores, news, and exclusive content for basketball fans.

Main Features:

• Live streaming of NBA games with NBA League Pass.
• Real-time stats, standings, and updates for every game.
• Exclusive content including behind-the-scenes stories and game highlights.
• Personalized updates on favorite teams and players.
• Access to NBA TV’s 24/7 stream and studio content.
• Archive access to memorable games and moments.

Pros:

• Comprehensive coverage of NBA games and events.
• Personalized content based on user preferences.
• Access to exclusive NBA content and archives.

Cons:

• Subscription required for full access.
• Blackouts and restrictions in certain regions.

Best For: NBA enthusiasts seeking extensive coverage of live games, scores, and exclusive league content.

Pricing: Free with in-app purchases for NBA League Pass and NBA TV subscriptions.

3. TuneIn Radio: Music & Sports

TuneIn Radio is an all-in-one audio app offering a vast selection of live news, sports, music, podcasts, and radio from around the world.

Main Features:

• Access to local, national, and global news sources.
• Live sports coverage including NFL, NHL, and college games.
• Curated music channels for various moods and genres.
• Extensive podcast library covering various interests.
• Stream over 100,000 AM, FM, and internet radio stations.
• TuneIn Premium for ad-free listening and additional content.

Pros:

• Wide variety of audio content in one app.
• Live sports coverage and real-time game notifications.
• Customizable listening experience with fewer ads for premium users.

Cons:

• Premium subscription required for ad-free listening and exclusive content.
• Some users may experience regional restrictions.

Best For: Listeners seeking a diverse range of audio content, including news, sports, music, and podcasts.

Pricing: Free with in-app purchases for TuneIn Premium subscription.

4. Spotify for Podcasters

“Spotify for Podcasters,” formerly known as Anchor, is a versatile app for creating, distributing, and monetizing podcasts.

Main Features:

• Easy podcast creation with a built-in recorder and import options.
• Intuitive editing tools and a library of sound effects and music.
• Remote recording with up to 4 guests or co-hosts.
• Free hosting and distribution to major platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
• Audience growth tools with unique Spotify stats and promotional features.
• Monetization options through voiceover ads and subscriptions.

Pros:

• User-friendly interface for podcast creation and editing.
• Free hosting and wide distribution.
• Tools for audience engagement and growth.

Cons:

• Limited to basic editing features.
• Monetization may require a substantial audience size.

Best For: Aspiring and existing podcasters looking for an easy-to-use platform for creating, distributing, and monetizing their podcasts.

Pricing: Free.

5. Apple Music

Apple Music offers a vast library of over 100 million songs, curated playlists, and exclusive content, all ad-free.

Main Features:

• Unlimited access to a vast music library and curated playlists.
• Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos for immersive listening.
• Lyrics view and sing-along features.
• Offline listening and cross-device syncing.
• Personalized recommendations and exclusive content.
• Live radio shows and interviews with artists.
• Integration with Siri for voice commands.

Pros:

• Extensive music library with high-quality audio.
• Personalized music recommendations.
• Exclusive content and live radio shows.

Cons:

• Subscription required for full access.
• Some users report occasional app bugs.

Best For: Music enthusiasts seeking a comprehensive music streaming service with high-quality audio and exclusive content.

Pricing: Free trial available; subscription required for full access.

6. Audible: Audio Entertainment

Audible offers a vast collection of audiobooks, podcasts, and exclusive Originals for a rich listening experience.

Main Features:

• Extensive range of audiobooks, podcasts, and Audible Originals.
• Categories including fiction, non-fiction, wellness, personal development, and more.
• Offline listening and seamless cross-device syncing.
• Sleep stories and relaxing sounds for wellness.
• Personalized recommendations and curated collections.
• Integration with CarPlay for in-car listening.

Pros:

• Wide variety of audio content.
• Offline listening and easy syncing across devices.
• Focus on wellness and personal development.

Cons:

• Subscription required for full access to content.
• Some users desire more navigation and playback options.

Best For: Listeners seeking a diverse range of audiobooks, podcasts, and wellness content for personal development and entertainment.

Pricing: Free with in-app purchases; subscription required for full access to content.

7. Panera Bread

The Panera Bread app enhances the dining experience at Panera Bread, making it easier and more convenient for customers to enjoy their meals.

Main Features:

• Order Ahead: Place orders for Rapid-Pick Up or Delivery.
• Dine-In Ordering: Order and pay from your table at most cafes.
• MyPanera Rewards: Join the program to earn and redeem rewards.
• Meal Customization: Personalize your order to your preference.
• Digital eGift Cards: Purchase gift cards directly in the app.
• Unlimited Sip Club: Join to enjoy drinks all year round with an Annual Plan.

Pros:

• Convenient mobile ordering and payment.
• Rewards program for frequent customers.
• Customizable meal options.

Cons:

• Limited to Panera Bread locations.
• Requires an internet connection for ordering and rewards.

Best For: Panera Bread customers looking for a convenient way to order, pay, and earn rewards on their meals.

Pricing: Free to download and use.

8. Chevron

The Chevron app offers a streamlined way to pay for fuel and earn rewards at Chevron and Texaco stations.

Main Features:

• Mobile Payment: Pay for fuel from your car at participating stations.
• Chevron Texaco Rewards (CTR) Program: Earn up to 50¢ off per gallon.
• Station Finder: Locate nearby Chevron or Texaco stations.
• CarPlay Integration: Connect the app to your car’s dashboard.
• Smartwatch Compatibility: Use your watch to pay for fuel and redeem rewards.

Pros:

• Convenient mobile payment at the pump.
• Rewards program for savings on fuel.
• Easy to find nearby stations with the app.

Cons:

• Limited to Chevron and Texaco stations.
• Requires setting up an account and payment method.

Best For: Drivers who frequently use Chevron or Texaco stations and want a convenient way to pay and save on fuel.

Pricing: Free to download and use.

9. MLB

The MLB app is the ultimate destination for baseball fans, offering live game coverage, stats, and exclusive content.

Main Features:

• Live Game Audio: Listen to all 30 MLB clubs.
• MLB.TV Subscription: Watch out-of-market games live and on-demand.
• Minor League Baseball: Access to over 7,000 MiLB games.
• Personalized Content: Follow specific players and teams.
• Real-Time Highlights: Watch in-game highlights for free.
• MLB Film Room: Search and view millions of videos.
• Gameday Experience: Real-time performance stats and 3D replays.

Pros:

• Comprehensive coverage of MLB games and events.
• Personalized content based on user preferences.
• Access to a vast library of videos and stats.

Cons:

• Subscription required for full access to live games.
• Blackout restrictions for certain games.

Best For: Baseball enthusiasts seeking extensive coverage of MLB games, player stats, and exclusive content.

Pricing: Free with in-app purchases for MLB.TV subscriptions.

10. ESPN: Live Sports & Scores

The ESPN app is a comprehensive sports hub, offering live sports coverage, scores, news, and in-depth analysis. It’s a must-have for sports enthusiasts who want to stay updated on their favorite games and teams.

Main Features:

• Live Sports Streaming: Access to live events and shows from ESPN networks.
• ESPN+ Subscription: Stream exclusive live sports and original content.
• Wide Coverage: Includes NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, college sports, golf, soccer, tennis, and more.
• Personalized Content: Tailored updates on favorite teams and players.
• On-Demand News and Highlights: Get the latest sports news and game highlights.
• Expert Analysis: Insightful commentary and analysis from sports experts.
• Podcasts and Radio: Subscribe to ESPN podcasts and listen to ESPN radio live.
• Multi-Platform Access: Available on iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, and Apple TV.

Pros:

• Extensive live sports coverage and exclusive content.
• Personalized experience based on user preferences.
• Access to a wide range of sports and expert analysis.

Cons:

• ESPN+ subscription required for full access to content.
• Some live games may be subject to blackout restrictions.

Best For: Sports fans looking for comprehensive coverage of live events, scores, news, and expert analysis across a wide range of sports.

Pricing: Free to download with in-app purchases. ESPN+ subscription available at $10.99 per month.

Drive Safely, Stay Connected

These best CarPlay apps ensure that you can stay connected and entertained while keeping your focus on the road. Remember, safety should always be your top priority when using these apps while driving.

So, go ahead and equip your car with the best CarPlay apps to transform your daily commute into a more enjoyable and productive experience. Your car will become more than just a mode of transportation; it will become your personal entertainment and productivity hub on the road.