Skype CarPlay

skype carplay - featured image

Since its release in 2014, Apple CarPlay has been a popular way to integrate an iPhone with a car’s infotainment system.

With CarPlay, users can access certain iPhone features, such as music, navigation, and messaging, using the car’s touchscreen and steering-wheel controls.

Microsoft recently released an update for Skype that allows it to be used with CarPlay, which allows drivers to receive Skype calls hands-free while driving.

CarPlay doesn’t officially support Skype, but that doesn’t mean you can’t use it. You just won’t be able to type or send a message using the Skype app on your car screen. However, you can still receive calls on display from Skype. 

Throughout the remainder of this article, I’ll explain the integration of Skype and CarPlay – two very popular technology platforms.

I will also discuss the compatibility and limitations of these two platforms and how you can use them together.

Does Skype Work With CarPlay?

theoretical skype carplay download screenshot from the app store

Skype works with CarPlay but in a limited way. You can place, receive, or end Skype calls using CarPlay, but you cannot send or receive messages. Some messaging apps, like Skype, support Apple’s CallKit framework, which allows for voice and video chat functionality.

Similarly, Facebook Messenger does not support sending or receiving messages through the app but does work with calls.

Facebook Messenger also supports Apple’s CallKit Framework but does not have as many features as Skype.

CarPlay cannot access some of the more private messages between people like how the CarPlay WhatsApp App can, but it can still be used to make calls.

Skype has been an integral part of communication for people worldwide for many years.

However, there is a possibility that CarPlay may not support the software officially.

Apple has not made an official statement on the matter. Still, it seems they do not want to include Skype in its platform because of its licensing restrictions.

Apple doesn’t have a dedicated team working on developing CarPlay integrations for third-party apps.

This means there may be delays in getting new features added to CarPlay and compatibility updates issued for existing apps. 

In addition, Skype is a complex app. It requires specific features and capabilities from the car’s hardware and software to work correctly.

How To Add Skype to Apple CarPlay

FOR MOST PEOPLE THIS IS NOT RECOMMENDED AS IT REQUIRES YOU TO JAILBREAK YOUR IPHONE TO WORK.

To add Skype to CarPlay, you must first install the WheelPal app from the App Store.

This is not like installing a regular CarPlay app.

WheelPal is an app that exists only for CarPlay, a feature of iOS that allows users to control certain functions of their car through their iPhone.

The app requires JailBreaking to work. It is a process by which users override certain security features on their devices to install unauthorized software.

Here’s are the steps you need to follow:

  1. Open the WheelPal app and sign in. If you don’t have an account, you can create one here. Ensure you have the latest version of WheelPal installed on your iOS device. 
  2. After installing the app, go to Settings. Click on general and tap the Profile and Device Management option. Search for Wheelpal and enable Trusted Developer. 
  3. Open up WheelPal and click on the “CarPlay” tab. Scroll down until you see the “Add New App” button and tap on it. This will open up a new screen where you can search for Skype. Once you’ve found it, tap on it and then follow the on-screen instructions to add it to your CarPlay list.

Now you’re ready to start using Skype in your car! Just open up the app, click on the “Phone” icon, and then choose Skype from the list of apps.

You’ll be able to call other people who have Skype installed on their iPhones or Android devices or even use VoiceOver to talk to them hands-free!

How To Use Skype in Apple CarPlay

Like most people, you probably use Skype at home on your computer or phone. But did you know that you can also use it in your car with Apple CarPlay? Here’s how:

  1. Open the Apple CarPlay app on your iPhone or iPad.
  2. Tap the “Apps” tab.
  3. Scroll down and find “Skype.”
  4. Tap “Skype” to open it.
  5. Start a call by tapping the phone icon and entering the person’s phone number or email address.
  6. You can also use Siri to start a call, too—just say, “Hey Siri, call [person] on Skype” or “Hey Siri, dial [person] on Skype”

 

See our list of the best CarPlay Siri commands to learn more about these.

Skype CarPlay: Features and Benefits

Skype CarPlay is an excellent feature for those who use their car for transportation.

With it, drivers can stay connected while they’re on the go. They can make calls, check their messages, and more.

Skype CarPlay is available on many different cars now, so there’s no excuse not to have it. 

Here are some of the benefits of using Skype CarPlay: 

  • Using Skype CarPlay keeps drivers safe by allowing them to stay connected without having to take their eyes off the road.
  • You can access Skype through Siri without having to take your phone out.
  • You can quickly call friends and family without taking your phone out while driving.

Skype Limitations on CarPlay 

The Skype experience on CarPlay is focused on making it easy to stay connected while on the go.

You can easily make and receive calls without ever taking your hands off the wheel. However, there are several limitations.

Many features are available only on Skype’s mobile or desktop version, and there’s no guarantee that they will ever be available on Skype CarPlay.

Here are some key features of Skype mobile or desktop not available on Skype Carplay:

    • Receiving and sending chat messages. You can receive Skype message notifications, but you cannot read the content or type a response using CarPlay. The main purpose of CarPlay is to keep apps as hand-free as possible to keep you safe while driving.
    • Video calls. You can initiate or receive Skype audio calls using CarPlay, but the video function is not available yet. It is also unlikely to become available anytime soon due to safety issues.

Conclusion

In short, Skype doesn’t fully work with CarPlay, unless you’re willing to jailbreak your phone.

This article explained the limitations and how to use Skype with CarPlay as best as you can. 

Alex
Alex
I loved my car but was frustrated with my media system. So I upgraded my stereo, making silly wires and precarious phone mounts a thing of the past. The Apple Car Play stereo was so good I wanted to show more people how this could be done and truly upgrade their cars multimedia system! Founder StereoUpgrade.com
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