Kia Motors America Expands Offer of Free Apple Carplay and Android Auto Software Updates to Growing Line of Vehicles

The FINANCIAL — Taking the UVO platform to yet another level of enhancement, Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced that free Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ software updates will be available for eligible vehicles when equipped with a compatible navigation system or UVO3. Customers will be notified by the end of July via email to go to myuvo.com for vehicle eligibility and step-by-step instructions on updating their vehicle with the latest downloadable software. All owners of new and pre-owned vehicles must register at myuvo.com to receive email notifications that the software is available for download. 

The following vehicles are eligible for the software update: 

• Forte (MY17)

• Optima (MY15-16) 

• Optima Hybrid (MY15-16) 

• Sedona (MY15-16) 

• Soul (MY14-16) 

• Soul EV (MY15-16) 

• Sorento (MY16) 

• Sportage (MY17) 

“With the advanced growth of telematics and infotainment systems, Kia is excited to offer to more of our customers the opportunity to have the latest software update for their vehicle free of charge via myuvo.com,” said Henry Bzeih, Managing Director Connected & Mobility Services, KMA. “Providing CarPlay and Android Auto™ to a greater number of vehicles in our lineup will revitalize our current owners’ systems with an additional element of convenience while maximizing the benefits of connectivity.” 

Android Auto connects to the user’s Android device and allows them access to smartphone apps and functions through Kia’s UVO infotainment system, such as voice-guided Google MapsTM navigation, hands-free calls and texts and voice recognition. Android Auto also lets users stream music from Google Play Music. With a simple and intuitive interface, integrated steering-wheel controls, and powerful voice actions, Android Auto was designed to minimize distraction so that users stay focused on the road, according to Kia Motors Corporation.

A smarter and more convenient way to use the iPhone in the car, CarPlay gives drivers the ability to access the device’s seamless user interface through Kia’s UVO infotainment system. By connecting the iPhone into the USB port, users are able to make phone calls, access music, send and receive messages, get directions optimized for traffic conditions and more while concentrating on driving. CarPlay also features hands-free support via Siri voice control or the vehicle’s controls and touchscreen.