With the rise of connected car technologies, modern vehicles now offer seamless smartphone integration and app connectivity right from the dashboard. For Toyota owners, this means a more engaging and efficient driving experience. If you’ve ever asked, “What apps can I use on Toyota?”, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the supported apps, how to access them, and how they can enhance your time on the road.
What Is Toyota’s Infotainment System?
Toyota’s infotainment system is primarily powered by its proprietary multimedia interface called Toyota Entune™, which comes preinstalled in most newer models. Designed to provide advanced connectivity, Entune allows drivers to sync smartphones via Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Toyota’s own ecosystem. These integrations unlock a range of apps directly accessible from the car’s touchscreen.
Depending on the model and trim level (e.g., Toyota Camry, Corolla, RAV4, Tundra), you’ll have different features. However, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility is now standard in most new Toyota models from 2021 and onward.
How to Use Apps on Your Toyota Infotainment System
Before jumping into the apps themselves, it’s important to understand how to access them on your Toyota vehicle. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Connect Your Smartphone
To use most apps in your Toyota, you’ll need to establish a connection with your smartphone using one of the following methods:
- Apple CarPlay (for iPhone users): Use a USB cable (preferred) or a compatible wireless connection if your model supports it.
- Android Auto (for Android users): Connect via a USB cable or wireless if your car is equipped for it.
2. Launch the Infotainment Interface
Once connected, your Toyota’s infotainment screen will switch to the CarPlay or Android Auto interface, where you’ll see your supported apps.
3. Select or Launch Apps
Touch the corresponding app icon to open it. Most systems also support voice commands for added convenience and safety.
Note: Toyota has also introduced Smart Device Link (SDL), which allows other smart apps on the native Entune system for certain models, even without Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
Popular Apps You Can Use on Toyota Vehicles
Toyota doesn’t host native mobile apps on its internal system in the way Tesla or Ford do, but thanks to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, you’ve got access to a huge collection of apps while still keeping your focus on the road.
Let’s explore some of the most useful apps that work seamlessly with Toyota infotainment systems:
Navigation & Maps Apps
Navigation is arguably the most important app when driving, and Toyota lets you use some of the best available options directly from your car’s dashboard.
Google Maps (Android Auto)
Google Maps is the go-to navigation app for Android users. Once connected via Android Auto, Google Maps becomes accessible from your large infotainment screen. Features include:
- Turn-by-turn directions
- Live traffic updates
- Predictive departure times
- Voice-guided route instructions
Apple Maps (Apple CarPlay)
Apple CarPlay users gain access to Apple Maps, which offers smooth integration with iPhone calendars and contacts. Users can also use Siri voice commands to set destinations on the fly.
Waze (Supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto)
Although Waze has been discontinued for Apple CarPlay as of late 2024, Android Auto users can still use Waze via Android Auto. Waze remains known for its community-driven traffic reports, accident alerts, and alternative route suggestions.
Music, Audio, and Entertainment Apps
Entertainment apps are a top priority for drivers and passengers alike. Whether you’re on a road trip or commuting across the city, music streaming apps can elevate your drive.
Apple Music / Spotify (Apple CarPlay)
Spotify is native for CarPlay and Apple Music is fully supported. Users can browse playlists, search for songs, and even enjoy offline playback by syncing their devices before the trip. You can also use voice commands via Siri:
- “Siri, play jazz music.”
- “Hey Siri, skip the next track.”
Spotify / YouTube Music / Amazon Music (Android Auto)
For Android users, Android Auto offers deep integration with leading music apps:
| App | Key Features in Toyota Infotainment | Supported System |
|---|---|---|
| Spotify | Offline playlists, search songs/artists, shuffle mode, queue tracks | Apple CarPlay, Android Auto |
| YouTube Music | Access to millions of songs, official albums, artist-exclusive playlists | Android Auto |
| Amazon Music | Prime Music integration, offline sync, personalized playlists | Android Auto |
Pandora
Pandora is well-integrated in Android Auto and has partial support for Apple CarPlay. Whether you’re a free or premium subscriber, you can enjoy live radio stations, curated playlists, and even customize genre-based stations specific to your drive.
Messaging and Hands-Free Communication
Safety is always the primary concern while driving. Toyota infotainment allows for hands-free calling and texting, using voice and smart integrations within CarPlay and Android Auto.
iMessage & WhatsApp
Apple CarPlay users can access iMessage, while Android Auto supports WhatsApp and SMS apps directly:
- Read messages aloud via Siri or Google Assistant
- Dictate replies without touching your phone
- Make or receive calls by touch or voice commands
This feature is supported alongside Toyota’s Bluetooth hands-free calling and driver-assist tech like Safety Sense.
Email Clients
While you can’t read full emails in Toyota’s Entune system, voice assistant integrations allow you to:
- Ask your assistant (Siri or Google Assistant) to send voice-dictated emails
- Know when emails arrive via audio alerts
Apps like Google Gmail (Android) and Apple Mail (iOS) communicate through CarPlay and Android Auto for essential updates.
Live Traffic and Weather Apps
Knowing current traffic and weather conditions is crucial for safe and punctual travels.
Google Assistant / Alexa / Siri Integration
Voice-assisted systems can now pull weather reports from services like Weather.com or AccuWeather depending on your phone’s default settings. Just say:
- “Hey Google, what’s the weather like today?”
- “Alexa, tell me the traffic conditions to downtown.”
- “Siri, what should I wear today?”
This integration is seamless via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Clearview Weather
Though not native in Toyota systems, Clearview Weather and similar enhanced weather apps can sync smart calendars for morning commutes or vacation drives from CarPlay and Android Auto interfaces.
Food & Drink Delivery Apps
Staying fueled on the road has never been easier. Toyota Entune enables Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration with major delivery apps:
Uber Eats, DoorDash, Grubhub
You can browse the latest food trends and place a to-go order from your car:
- Search restaurants based on your location
- Track real-time delivery times
- Save your favorite meals for quick reorder
Although orders must be placed before driving (safety first!), the information from these apps can still display arrival times and order status.
Podcast and Audiobook Apps
Perfect for long journeys, podcasts and audiobooks give drivers enriching content while on the go.
Podcasts (Apple CarPlay)
Apple CarPlay supports Apple’s native Podcast app, with the ability to:
- Subscribe to daily news or shows
- Listen with Siri: “Siri, play the latest tech podcast.”
- Navigate favorite channels from the touchscreen
YouTube, Audible, and Spotify (Android Auto)
Android Auto users have more options for podcast-style content:
- Spotify playlists (talk shows, comedy, and drama shorts)
- YouTube videos (for parked listening mode only)
- Audible audiobooks with full integration: play, pause, skip ahead, mark favorites
Pro Tip: Use CarPlay or Android Auto while parked to queue up your next podcast.
Vehicle Management and Connected Toyota Apps
For complete control beyond entertainment and navigation, Toyota offers official apps that connect seamlessly with your vehicle.
Toyota App
Toyota’s official app, the Toyota App, is available for both iOS and Android. It offers functions like:
- Remote engine start / locking
- Vehicle health reports
- Notifications about maintenance
- Integration with select Entune multimedia updates
With the Toyota App, owners can sync with the infotainment system to streamline service appointments, locate dealerships, and keep tabs on vehicle diagnostics—all from your smartphone.
MyT App (European & Asian Market)
If you’re driving in Europe or Asia, Toyota provides a localized alternative called MyT App, which includes specific settings and vehicle management tools for those markets.
How the Toyota Infotainment Experience Compares to Competitors
You might wonder how the app experience in a Toyota stacks up against those in vehicles from Honda, Ford, or even Tesla.
Toyota’s approach differs in that its infotainment system focuses on stability, ease of use, and third-party app compatibility, rather than building a proprietary app platform.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | Toyota (Entune + CarPlay/Android Auto) | Ford (SYNC + AppLink) | Tesla (Native App Ecosystem) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Native App Catalog | Limited (some through SmartDeviceLink) | Medium | Extensive (built on-linux OS) |
| Apple CarPlay & Android Auto | Full support | Full support | No support anymore |
| App Discovery | via smartphone mirroring | via AppLink UI | via in-dash Tesla App Store |
| User-Controlled Updates | via Entune updates | via SYNC | OTA system updates |
Toyota may not have the biggest app store on wheels, but it ensures that the apps that count—like navigation, music, and essential safety tools—are always working well and easy to access.
Future of App Accessibility in Toyota Vehicles
With tech advancements pushing for deeper in-car app experiences—especially in EVs and smart mobility—Toyota has plans to modernize their infotainment infrastructure.
In a press release from 2024, Toyota confirmed that it’s working on a future platform called Connected Toyota Service (CTS), which will enable:
- Native app installation
- Integration with 5G cellular capabilities
- Onboard app store for real-time downloads
- Deeper partnership with Alexa, Google Assistant, and CarPlay/Android Auto
If Toyota follows through successfully, future models may see app integration capabilities matching or surpassing those of current-generation luxury EVs from other automakers.
Tips for Optimizing App Usage in Your Toyota
Want to get the most out of your app experience in your Toyota? Here are a few recommendations to ensure the experience stays smooth and safe:
Keep Infotainment Software Updated
Toyota regularly updates the Entune system. Updating the software ensures:
- Compatibility with the latest smartphones
- Security patches
- Improved performance and bug fixes
You can update software using the Toyota Express Update via a USB stick or over-the-air through the Toyota App.
Use Voice Commands
Toyota models with SmartDeviceLink or Apple CarPlay/Android Auto can interpret voice commands. Voice input ensures safer operation and minimizes distractions.
Optimize Phone Battery Life
If your apps run directly through your phone, make sure it’s charged:
- Use the USB port in your center console
- Consider wireless charging, if your model supports it
Organize Your App Layout
Both CarPlay and Android Auto let you rearrange your app icons and hide ones you rarely use. Tailor your app dashboard for a clean, clutter-free driving interface.
Final Thoughts – Making the Most of Toyota’s App Integration
Toyota’s app ecosystem today is one of integration rather than in-house development. By allowing Apple CarPlay and Android Auto—and integrating smart tools like the Toyota App—Toyota ensures every driver can have seamless access to the apps they already use. Whether you’re relying on Google Maps while navigating a new city, tuning into a Spotify playlist on your morning commute, or checking messages with voice commands, Toyota makes it both convenient and accessible.
If you’re a Toyota owner or considering purchasing one, rest assured: app technology is alive and well in your Toyota dashboard. Toyota continues to evolve with the times, ensuring its vehicles remain smart, connected, and ready for the long road ahead.
So next time you hop into your car, don’t just ask, “What apps can I use on Toyota?”—ask, “What experience can I create onboard today?”
What apps are compatible with Toyota infotainment systems?
Toyota infotainment systems support a variety of apps through platforms like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing drivers to access their favorite applications seamlessly while on the road. Popular compatible apps include navigation tools like Google Maps and Apple Maps, music streaming services such as Spotify, Apple Music, and Pandora, and communication apps like WhatsApp and Apple Messages (via voice commands and Siri or Google Assistant). Toyota also integrates certain apps directly into its multimedia systems through the Toyota App Store and select apps optimized for driving via embedded screens.
Additionally, certain Toyota models provide Smart Device Integration, allowing for a wider range of app compatibility via smartphone mirroring. Some Toyota models also support cloud-based apps via Toyota Connect, which is part of the Toyota Connected Services suite. However, not all apps are available in every region or model year, so it’s recommended to check your vehicle’s user manual or Toyota’s official website for the most accurate and updated list of supported applications.
Does Toyota support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes, Toyota supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on most newer models. These integrations allow drivers to mirror their smartphone screens to the vehicle’s multimedia display, enabling access to a wide selection of apps directly from the dashboard. Apple CarPlay supports apps like Apple Maps, Music, Podcasts, and third-party apps like Spotify and WhatsApp, while Android Auto includes Google Maps, Google Play Music, and compatible apps from the Google Play Store.
Toyota began incorporating Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in select models starting from the 2020 model year, and they have since become standard across a wide range of vehicles. If your Toyota does not come with these features from the factory, you may be able to upgrade through a dealership or a compatible accessory. These platforms provide a more personalized and connected driving experience by allowing users to manage music, calls, messages, and navigation without needing to look at their phones.
How do I connect my phone to Toyota’s infotainment system to use apps?
To connect your smartphone to Toyota’s infotainment system for app access, you can use either a USB cable or, in some models, wireless connectivity. For wired Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, simply plug your iPhone or Android device into the designated USB port—typically found in the center console—while the vehicle is running. The screen will then prompt you to enable the connection and grant necessary permissions.
Wireless versions of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available in select Toyota models and require that your device supports wireless connectivity. To initiate pairing, ensure both the phone and car are on the same Wi-Fi network, and follow the prompts on the infotainment screen. Once connected, apps like navigation, music, and messaging will be accessible through the Toyota display, providing a more streamlined and safer experience while driving.
Can I install apps directly on Toyota’s infotainment system without a smartphone?
While some Toyota infotainment systems allow for limited direct app installation, most features rely on smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto for broader app functionality. Toyota’s own connected services app, Toyota Connect, can be installed independently on the vehicle’s embedded system and offers features such as remote start, real-time traffic updates, stolen vehicle location, and vehicle diagnostics.
However, streaming or entertainment apps like YouTube, Spotify, or Netflix generally require a smartphone connection rather than being installed natively on the vehicle. Certain Toyota models may include embedded apps for real-time traffic, weather, or news through Toyota Connected Services, but the range of available built-in apps is generally more limited compared to using smartphone mirroring. For maximum app flexibility, connecting a compatible smartphone remains the preferred method.
Is there a way to use navigation apps on Toyota infotainment systems?
Yes, Toyota infotainment systems offer both built-in navigation and integration with third-party navigation apps like Google Maps and Apple Maps, depending on the model and trim. In vehicles equipped with native navigation, you’ll find a preloaded map system that offers route planning, traffic updates (via real-time data where available), and points of interest. This built-in solution works without requiring a smartphone connection.
For drivers who prefer real-time updates, voice-guided navigation, and integration with their personal data, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto provide seamless access to Apple Maps and Google Maps, with live traffic, estimated time of arrival, route modifications, and POI searches. These apps mirror your smartphone’s navigation experience and are displayed directly on the Toyota screen. This ensures drivers can access the most accurate and up-to-date navigation tools while maintaining a safe and focused driving experience.
Are music streaming apps like Spotify supported on Toyota infotainment systems?
Yes, Toyota infotainment systems support major music streaming apps such as Spotify, Apple Music, Pandora, and Amazon Music, but typically through smartphone integration. By connecting your iPhone or Android device via USB or wirelessly using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, users can access their existing accounts, playlists, and music libraries directly from the Toyota display screen.
Spotify, in particular, can be controlled through CarPlay or Android Auto, allowing users to play songs hands-free by using voice commands or the car’s touchscreen interface. While Toyota has not yet enabled Spotify as a stand-alone app on the infotainment system without a connected smartphone, the seamless mirroring experience ensures that music lovers can continue to enjoy their favorite tunes with minimal interruption. This setup also allows for real-time song updates, playlist changes, and personalized recommendations while maintaining a connected and interactive experience.
What are Toyota Connected Services apps, and how do they enhance the driving experience?
Toyota Connected Services is a suite of built-in apps and features that add convenience, safety, and vehicle awareness through the Toyota infotainment system. These include services such as Remote Connect, which allows drivers to start their vehicle, lock or unlock doors, and locate their car using a smartphone app. The system also includes connected navigation, real-time traffic updates, safety alerts, Wi-Fi hotspot functionality, and app-based maintenance reminders.
By leveraging Toyota Connected Services, owners can enhance their experience with smart, integrated tools. The system includes cloud-based services that work independently of a smartphone once enrolled, offering features like vehicle diagnostics, emergency assistance, and stolen vehicle recovery. Toyota App provides a centralized way to manage these features and integrates directly into your vehicle’s display, creating a more connected, efficient, and secure driving experience without needing additional hardware or smartphone mirroring.