Customizing Car Interface with iPad Mini

Apr 30, 2025

Enhancing Car Interface with iPad Mini

Initial Problem

  • Small screen in modern car (5-inch screen)
  • Initial belief: "It's just a radio, it'll be fine"
  • Frustration due to downgrade from better user interface

Attempted Solution

  • Goal: Add Apple CarPlay to original head unit
  • Limitation: Solution available only for 7-inch screens

Alternative Solution

  • Discovery: "Next level dashboard with iPad" video
  • Decision: Purchase iPad Mini 6 (cellular version)
    • Compact size suitable for car

Mounting the iPad

  • Prototype idea: Avoid blocking original screen
  • Final decision: Better aesthetics to cover original screen
  • Car model: Volvo XC60
  • Custom Holder: Tool-free, magnetic, removable

Software Enhancement for iPad

Creating Driving Home Screen Page

  • Long press empty space on home screen
  • Swipe left to create new page
  • Add widgets and apps via app library
    • Steps: Hold app -> swipe left for more apps -> swipe right to place
  • Example layout: Shortcuts for navigation, music, Google Maps, brightness

Creating Driving Focus Mode

  • Go to Settings > Focus > Plus (+) for new focus
  • Customize: Name, icon, and link to driving home screen
  • Optional lock screen customization

Shortcut Creation

  • Driving Focus Shortcut
    • Open Shortcuts app > Plus (+) > Set Focus > Driving (until turned off)
  • Brightness Shortcut
    • Plus (+) > Set Brightness > Choose percentage
  • Split Screen Shortcut
    • Plus (+) > Split screen > Choose two apps

Automation Setup

  • Bluetooth Automation
    • Connect iPad to car > Create automation for Bluetooth connection
    • Activation: Driving focus mode when connected
    • Deactivation: Driving focus mode off when disconnected
  • Text Size Automation
    • Extra large text when driving mode on
    • Default text when driving mode off
    • Steps: Plus (+) > Focus > Set Text Size

Final Adjustments

  • Use large icons on home screen
  • Add shortcuts to home screen via widget
    • Steps: Hold empty space > Edit > Add widget > Shortcuts > Select shortcut

Additional Customization

  • New custom holder for both iPad and phone
    • Can charge phone
  • Decision dilemma between using iPad or iPhone setup

Conclusion

  • Personal success in customizing car interface
  • Invitation for feedback on preferred setup
  • Acknowledgment of completion: "Thanks for watching"

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