Hyundai goes DIY: Brand adds smartphone integration to several existing models

By Andrew Hard May 26, 2016

2016 Hyundai Sonata — 2016 Hyundai Sonata Image used with permission by copyright holder

The convenience of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto has been delighting smartphone-carrying drivers for the last 18 months so, but if you don’t want to buy a new car or throw down for an aftermarket head unit, you’re still pretty much out of luck. Thankfully, Hyundai has you covered … if you own a Hyundai.

The Korean brand has released a software update that allows certain existing vehicles to add smartphone integration into their infotainment systems. The do-it-yourself upgrade is available at no cost on MyHyundai.com, but dealerships nationwide will install it for a fee starting in June.

“Launching smartphone integrations on these existing models through MyHyundai will enhance the overall ownership experience,” said Barry Ratzlaff, executive director of digital business planning at Hyundai. “Existing owners can now get the most out of their smartphones, by simply loading new software into their cars’ infotainment systems. Just a few years ago, they would have had to buy a new car to get such a powerful upgrade.”

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hyundai releases diy smartphone integration apple carplay android auto 436000 45515 do it yourself installation for integrati — Android Auto Image used with permission by copyright holder

hyundai releases diy smartphone integration apple carplay android auto adds support to 2016 sonata — Apple CarPlay Image used with permission by copyright holder

Select model years of the Hyundai Sonata, Genesis, Elantra GT, Tucson, Santa Fe, and Santa Fe Sport are all compatible will the update, and for a full list of vehicles, check out the automaker’s press release. Coming soon, the brand will launch do-it-yourself instruction videos on the MyHyundai site as well as the Hyundai USA YouTube page.

Read more: MyHyundai could be the first carmaker-specific Android Auto app

Smartphone integration is one of the biggest stories in the auto industry right now, but an even bigger one is the increased proliferation of electric vehicles. On Tuesday, we reported that Hyundai plans to launch a number of emissions-free vehicles in the next four years, including the Ioniq Electric this fall and a 250-mile pure EV by 2020. For more on Hyundai’s battery-powered future, click here.

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