Audi announced today that it will offer Apple's CarPlay by next year.
New models scheduled to arrive in Europe next year will integrate with CarPlay, and the feature will be in U.S. showrooms by 2016.
With CarPlay, iPhone users can sync their devices with their car for hands-free calling and texting. They can also access maps and control the music on their iDevices. Control CarPlay by voice using Siri, or use the Audi's MMI touch system and dial controls.
"In CarPlay-equipped models, Audi motorists will simply connect their iPhone to begin using their apps through the car's native controls," Audi said. "Drivers also have the option to easily switch from the CarPlay view and the Audi infotainment functions as desired."
According to Apple, CarPlay will be available in cars this year from Ferrari, Honda, Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz, and Volvo. Two dozen more companies have also committed to CarPlay integration on future cars, including BMW, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Ford, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Toyota, and more.
Meanwhile, there will be aftermarket CarPlay solutions from Alpine and Pioneer, meaning those with older cars can equip their vehicles with Apple's solution.
Audi is also a part of the Open Automotive Alliance, a partnership with Google, GM, Honda, Hyundai, and Nvidia that's intended to accelerate in-car tech innovation.
At its I/O developer conference last month, Google revealed Android Auto, which is similar to CarPlay but for Android devices. Just plug in your Android phone to an Android Auto-equipped car, and data from your phone - like reminders, messages, maps, and more - will appear on the car's in-dash display and be controllable via that screen, steering wheel buttons, or voice.
Google said that over 25 car brands have signed up to ship Android Auto, and the first cars with it installed will roll out of dealer lots by year's end.
For more, check out PCMag's hands on with Apple CarPlay from WWDC and the slideshow above.