One of the common concerns among users who have installed the SoundCloud app is that it fails to show on your CarPlay head unit.
Understandably, this can be frustrating when wanting to stream or listen to your favorite tunes while you drive.
So, is there a problem with SoundCloud CarPlay compatibility, and if so, what should you do?
It is not currently possible to use SoundCloud with Carplay. While SoundCloud is working on increasing the app’s accessibility, there is now no integration with Apple Carplay. Therefore, SoundCloud mobile app support does not extend to CarPlay and, as such, does not function with the Carplay .
In this article, I will explain why you may be having issues seeing the SoundCloud CarPlay app on your CarPlay head unit, even after installing it on your iPhone.
See SoundClouds official stance:
Additionally, I will guide you through some other alternatives in the market that will allow you to listen to music while driving.
Can You Use SoundCloud on Apple CarPlay?
SoundCloud does not offer a CarPlay app at the moment. Accordingly, it won’t work with your CarPlay head unit. However, there are workarounds!
The objective of Apple Carplay was to integrate your iPhone interface into your vehicle’s touchscreen, which ensures that you can listen to music without touching your phone.
Accordingly, you should be able to navigate your phone, dial, or send text messages from the car’s touchscreen.
It is a crucial safety feature to prevent handling your phone while on the road.
However, because there is no integration of the SoundCloud app with Apple Carplay presently, I recommend trying out these alternatives.
Alternatives to Using Soundcloud Apple CarPlay
There are various alternatives that you can pursue if you want to listen to your music library while on the road:
1. Play the Music From Your Phone
Due to compatibility issues, you’re unable to directly select and navigate through your SoundCloud songs and playlists using the CarPlay touch screen. However, there’s a workaround.
While your iPhone is connected to CarPlay, you can manually open the SoundCloud app on your phone and select your desired songs or playlists from there.
Please note, this method is less convenient and potentially unsafe if you’re attempting to do this while driving. Therefore, it’s not recommended. This is merely a temporary solution until SoundCloud releases a CarPlay-compatible app.
Alternatively, you might consider using another music app that is already supported by CarPlay. I’ll provide some suggestions for these below.
2. Use Other Music Apps That Integrate With Apple Carplay
Although SoundCloud CarPlay is not currently supported, there are other Apple CarPlay music apps that are. I will discuss some of these options below:
- CarPlay Spotify: Spotify has created a new app compatible with Apple CarPlay. Accordingly, it allows the driver to access millions of songs and podcasts from this streaming service right from the car’s dashboard. Unlike SoundCloud, Spotify integrates seamlessly with Apple Carplay and provides complete navigational control.
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CarPlay YouTube Music: YouTube Music offers a comprehensive music library, but it’s worth noting that it requires a paid account for CarPlay access. However, this subscription also provides an ad-free experience across the entire YouTube platform, making it a worthwhile investment for frequent YouTube users.
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CarPlay Amazon Music: Amazon Music is a fantastic choice for Amazon Prime members, as it comes at no extra cost. With a wide array of songs, albums, and playlists, it offers a seamless music experience for those already invested in the Amazon ecosystem.
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CarPlay Apple Music: As a native application, Apple Music integrates flawlessly with CarPlay. Its standout feature is the Beats 1 Radio, a 24/7 music station led by influential DJs, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy discovering new music.
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CarPlay Deezer: Deezer’s app for CarPlay provides an extensive music library. Its unique feature, Flow, learns your music preferences and creates a personalized stream of music, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy tailored music experiences.
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CarPlay Tidal: Tidal stands out for its commitment to high-quality music files, making it the go-to choice for audiophiles. Its integration with CarPlay ensures a premium and uninterrupted music experience for those who prioritize sound quality above all else.
You can easily add apps to CarPlay by installing the regular version of the app on your iPhone. It’s that easy!
Final Thoughts
While SoundCloud support does not currently extend to Apple Carplay, it does not mean that you cannot access your favorite music while on the road.
If you do not mind losing some functionality, you can pair your iPhone to your stereo wirelessly or USB and start the music from the phone.
However, alternative music streaming apps such as Spotify, Vox, and Pandora are compatible with Apple CarPlay.
You may want to explore these alternatives as they will provide access to a wide range of music and podcasts to keep you entertained while on the road.
