Turn your wired CarPlay into wireless

Do wireless CarPlay adapters actually work? Several years ago, I bought a new car that came with wired Apple CarPlay. I really wanted wireless CarPlay, but replacing the whole entertainment system at the time seemed like overkill. Fortunately, there’s a solution for turning standard CarPlay into wireless CarPlay, and it works with iOS 26 and iPhone 17.

Easy installation

Setting up the adapter is no harder than pairing with wireless CarPlay. Connect the adapter to your car’s USB port that powers wired CarPlay, then pair your iPhone to the adapter over Bluetooth from the Settings app.

I tried the adapter when it arrived just to check if it paired. That’s when I had a total surprise-and-delight moment a few days later.

I took a short drive across town with my iPhone in my pocket without thinking about the adapter, and CarPlay just appeared on my screen automatically after a few seconds of connecting.

The most important thing is that steering wheel controls for volume, track skipping, and voice input actually work.

I’ve been incredibly happy with the Carlink system for years. I highly recommend trying Carlink you already have CarPlay but wish it was wireless. The price can be much more affordable than buying an aftermarket wireless CarPlay head unit and paying for installation.

See also: best CarPlay apps.

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