I'll be picking up my new-to-me F-Type this weekend, a 2016 F-Type V6 S. It has the following infotainment system that apparently has bluetooth.

I understand that it isn't CarPlay, so in that case, what does it actually do? Can I for example lauch Spotify on my phone and have the audio come out of the car speakers, but control everything from the Spotify app on the phone as opposed to the infotainment display?

Thanks for any help!

 

Yes, exactly

 

Got it, thank you! And the phone doesn't have to be plugged in to the car USB power outlet for this to work?

 

Nope! Just pair like you would pair with a set of Bluetooth headphones. You get music + hands free calling. No wires (unless you want to charge your phone).

 

Oh! That's perfect actually! Thank you!

 

You can also fast forward to the next song or go back off the steering wheel controls.

 

And if you like Waze and use spoken directions or spoken alerts the Spotify will turn down for a few seconds so you can hear it

You can add a CarPlay adapter to most of these. A bit of plug and play wiring harness and a new module - doesn't take long to put in. Big benefit in my view. I did the GTA car kit in my 2017. Posted on here.

 

The Carplay kit is a pretty easy add-on. But the factory bluetooth audio is actually very good. Sound quality is good, it stays connected, and the steering wheel controls work well to handle calls, skip tracks, etc. Depending on your phone you should also be able to use the steering wheel call button to activate Siri and request specific music or playlists or directions. And then get directions guidance over the speakers. Podcasts and audiobooks will work, too.

 

My only gripe with the F-type system vs other JLR products, is the bluetooth mic is behind the instrument pack as opposed to above the driver seat, due to the need for a convertible friendly option. This results in somewhat less voice quality outbound on the cars than our other products, but mostly it isn't an issue for people. In general our bluetooth systems work pretty well, it's more issues with the factory Carplay setups losing connection. Almost never issues with just the bluetooth.