In today’s culture, Apple is the brand that is on everyone’s mind. People have to have the latest iPhone, iPad or Mac. In order to seem current today, you have to have at least one Apple item.  Apple has just announced that there is a new gadget that should be on everyone’s tech wish list: CarPlay. This new device can only be installed in a select number of car models and hooks up to an iPhone.

A growing problem of today has been texting and driving or a general use of unnecessary technology behind the wheel. On a drive people listen to Pandora, get calls, texts and other distracting notifications. CarPlay’s main goal is to minimalize the amount of distraction behind the wheel. With a simple set up that is easily operated while driving, this device is a must have for iPhone users.

There are four options for use of this device: voice, screen, wheel and button. You can use your CarPlay like Siri and simply ask it to change songs for you or to text your mom that you are almost home. There is a main screen that works like any touch screen device that is on the dashboard. On the steering wheel of the vehicle, there are some switches that control this device and can change options like it would radio stations. Finally, there is a pad of buttons and controls like a normal stereo that is between seats in the vehicle.

The CarPlay can also work like a GPS. The difference between a CarPlay and a normal GPS, though, is that since the CarPlay is connected to your iPhone, it can take addresses from Facebook, text messages and emails. This saves the hassle of having to retype it in manually from device to device. This also ensures that if you need to change directions in the middle of your drive, you don’t have to stop and type it in or risk crashing. Along with the traditional music section, you can download additional apps, like podcasts or iHeart radio.

With our society speeding up like it is, we need a device that can keep us up to speed. With CarPlay’s hands-free capability, drivers can have a seamless phone and car experience while lowering one’s risk for accidents. CarPlay is scheduled to be available in a limited amount of car models later this year.