A hacker has finally found the solution to install Apple CarPlay in Tesla models. He explains the procedure to follow to do like him.
Since the launch of the Model S in 2012, Tesla has evolved its vehicles by offering them more autonomy, but above all new features. It’s very simple, it is now possible to do almost everything on board a model of the brand, such as watching Netflix, playing video games and even relaxing in front of a virtual fireplace. Among others.
But there is however a function, however very useful, which is still not available on the various vehicles of the firm of Elon Musk. This is Apple CarPlay. As for Android Auto, Tesla refuses to integrate it into its cars, in particular because of a conflict with Tim Cook, the boss of the apple brand. However, it would be possible to take advantage of this feature, with a little tinkering.
A smart solution, but not simple
A Polish-born developer, dubbed Michał Gapiński, managed to get Apple CarPlay to work in his own Tesla. As relayed by The Verge, the hacker managed to find a method to take advantage of this feature. Even better, he decided to share the latter on the net, so that everyone can enjoy it.
To be able to install Apple CarPlay on your Tesla, you will still need some hardware. This method requires Tesla Android to be downloaded from Github, but not only. You will need a Raspberry Pi 4 to run the software on Android, a Raspberry Pi 3 on Linux, a Wi-Fi access point, a micro-HDMI to HDMI cable, a an LTE modem and an Ethernet cable.
A constantly evolving system
Once you have followed the user manual, available on the developer’s website, you will then need to plug the device into a USB port or a cigarette lighter socket, near the center console. Once connected to the car’s WI-Fi, just open the built-in browser to access the Android interface. So you can use Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, depending on your preferences. The display will then be identical to that offered on standard compatible vehicles.
If the developer points out that some bugs persist, he specifies that this project is still under development. He hopes to eventually be able to reduce the need for only one Raspberry Pi, while making the interface even more responsive for users.
Be careful, because modifying your vehicle in this way is not always without consequences. Indeed, we remember a case that took place in 2020, where owners of Tesla Model 3 had installed a system to improve acceleration. A message was then displayed on the screen, indicating that a modification incompatible with the vehicle had been detected. This could then not be removed, although the car was still operational.
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