Apple CarPlay finally opens up to Google Maps and Waze for iOS 12

Even though Apple’s CarPlay supports third-party apps, the software forces you to use Apple Maps if you want to get directions. That will no longer be the case with iOS 12, which includes support for third-party navigation apps like Google Maps and Waze.

This will come as welcome news for those who are not fans of Apple’s own mapping solution. The company has come a long way since Apple Maps debuted in 2012, but the app is only available on iOS and MacOS. Google Maps and Waze, meanwhile, are also available on Android and are the superior options for some folks.

Google Maps is over 13 years old and arguably the best navigation app on smartphones. Waze, meanwhile, is also from Google and includes crowdsourced traffic, accident, and incident reports.

We do not know which other navigation apps will eventually support CarPlay, though Google Maps and Waze are the heavy hitters. We also do not know how the CarPlay versions of Google Maps and Waze look. Even so, it is a nice change of pace for Apple, which is known for its tight control over the apps that get the CarPlay treatment.

CarPlay depends on either a compatible factory-fit or aftermarket head unit. You plug your iPhone into the head unit, which displays a driving-friendly version of iOS. You can either use the touch screen or physical controls, such as a joystick or scroll wheel, to control CarPlay.

iOS 12 will be available sometime this fall, though the developer beta is available today.