Does Audi Charge for Apple CarPlay?

Apple CarPlay Availability by Model Year

Audi began integrating Apple CarPlay across its lineup starting with the 2017 model year^[1]. The feature has been standard equipment—not an optional extra—since its introduction.

Wired CarPlay (USB Connection)

Wired Apple CarPlay requires connecting your iPhone via USB cable and is available on^[2]:

2017+: A3, A4, A6, A7, Q7, TT, R8
2018+: A5, Q5 (added)
2019+: A8, Q8, e-tron SUV
2020+: Q3, e-tron Sportback
2022+: A3, Q4 e-tron, e-tron GT

Wireless CarPlay (No Cable Required)

Wireless CarPlay began rolling out in 2019 on select models and expanded significantly with MIB3 infotainment systems^[2]:

2019: A6, A7, A8, Q8, e-tron SUV (MIB2+ MMI)
2020: A6, A7, A8, Q3, Q7, Q8, e-tron SUV, e-tron Sportback
2021: A4, A5, A6, A7, A8, Q5, Q7, Q8, e-tron models (MIB3 MMI)
2022+: All models including A3, Q4 e-tron, e-tron GT

If you’re considering Audi’s Advanced Key system, wireless CarPlay pairs particularly well since both features eliminate the need for cables or removing devices from pockets.

No Subscription Required in the US

Unlike some BMW and Mercedes-Benz connected features, Apple CarPlay on Audi vehicles requires no subscription fee in the United States^[3]. Once you purchase or lease an Audi with the smartphone interface, CarPlay works indefinitely at no additional cost.

The feature itself is free from Apple as well—there are no licensing fees passed to consumers^[4]. You simply need:

A compatible iPhone (iPhone 5 or newer)
iOS 7.1 or later (iOS 14+ recommended for full features)
A USB cable for wired connection, or Bluetooth/WiFi enabled for wireless

Audi Connect services like navigation, traffic data, and WiFi hotspot do require separate paid subscriptions^[5]. However, these are entirely separate from Apple CarPlay functionality.

European Subscription Changes (2025)

In March 2024, Audi announced that the 2025 A3 in Europe would offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto through a subscription model^[3]. This change is part of Audi’s Function on Demand program, which also includes adaptive cruise control and dual-zone climate control as subscription features in select European markets.

Subscription options in Europe include^[3]:

Single month access
Six-month packages
Three-year plans
Outright purchase option

Critically, Audi confirmed to Motor1 that the US version of the 2025 A3 will have the same offer structure for Function on Demand as the previous 2024 model year^[3]. This means Apple CarPlay remains standard in the United States without subscription requirements.

Whether these European subscription practices eventually migrate to the US market remains uncertain, but for now, American buyers are unaffected.

How to Connect Apple CarPlay

Setting up CarPlay on your Audi requires no payment or activation—just follow these steps^[2].

Wired Connection

Use an Apple-certified Lightning or USB-C cable
Plug the cable into your Audi’s USB port (typically in the center console)
Connect your iPhone
Accept the CarPlay prompt on both your iPhone and MMI display
CarPlay will launch automatically on subsequent connections

Wireless Connection

Enable Bluetooth and WiFi on your iPhone
On your Audi MMI, select the Phone tab
Choose “Connect Mobile Device”
Find your iPhone in the list of nearby devices
Accept the Bluetooth pairing request on your iPhone
Accept the CarPlay connection prompt
Future connections happen automatically when entering the vehicle

If wireless CarPlay fails to connect, ensure your iPhone isn’t connected to another WiFi network (home or office)^[2]. The MMI’s 5GHz WiFi band is used for CarPlay, and conflicts with other networks can interrupt the connection.

Retrofit Options for Older Models

Audi vehicles from 2016 and earlier without factory CarPlay can be upgraded through several methods^[6].

Official Audi Smartphone Interface Retrofit

Audi offers a genuine retrofit solution for select older models^[7]:

Requires purchase of the smartphone interface license key (approximately $275 in Europe)
Installation takes roughly 30 minutes at a dealer
Labor costs vary by dealer ($50–$150)

Aftermarket Solutions

Third-party options range from $100–$500 depending on features^[4]:

Plug-and-play adapters: Connect to existing MMI systems
Head unit replacements: Full infotainment upgrades with CarPlay integration
Wireless adapters: Add wireless capability to wired-only systems

Installation costs for aftermarket systems typically range from $200–$500 beyond the hardware^[4].

Key Takeaways

Apple CarPlay is free and standard on all US Audi models since 2017—no subscription or extra cost required
Wireless CarPlay became widely available starting with 2021 models featuring MIB3 infotainment systems
European 2025 A3 models offer CarPlay through subscription, but US models are confirmed exempt from this change
Older Audi models can add CarPlay through official retrofits ($275–$400) or aftermarket solutions ($100–$500+)
Audi Connect subscriptions are separate from CarPlay—the connected services require payment, but CarPlay itself does not

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Apple CarPlay free on all Audi models?

Yes, Apple CarPlay is free on all Audi models sold in the United States since 2017^[1]. There are no additional fees, subscriptions, or activations required. The feature comes standard as part of Audi’s smartphone interface package included with every new vehicle.

Does wireless CarPlay require Audi Connect subscription?

No, wireless CarPlay does not require an Audi Connect subscription^[2]. However, if your Audi Connect Plus subscription has expired, ensure your iPhone is not set to use the vehicle’s WiFi hotspot for data, as this can interfere with the wireless CarPlay connection.

Can I add CarPlay to an older Audi?

Yes, CarPlay can be added to pre-2017 Audi models through official retrofit kits or aftermarket solutions^[6]. Official Audi retrofits cost approximately $275–$400 including installation, while aftermarket options range from $100–$500 for the hardware plus $200–$500 for professional installation.

Will Audi charge for CarPlay in the future?

Currently, there are no announced plans to charge for CarPlay in the US market^[3]. While Audi has introduced subscription-based CarPlay for the 2025 A3 in Europe, the company explicitly confirmed that US models will maintain the same free CarPlay structure as previous model years.

Why isn’t my wireless CarPlay working?

Common issues include your iPhone being connected to another WiFi network, Bluetooth pairing conflicts, or security lockouts if the phone hasn’t been unlocked recently^[2]. Reset network settings on your iPhone and re-pair Bluetooth to the MMI system. Ensure you’re not manually connecting to the 2.4GHz band, as CarPlay uses the 5GHz band.

References

Carlinkit Factory. (2024). Do Audis Have CarPlay? A Comprehensive Guide to Audi’s Infotainment System.
Do Audis Have CarPlay? A Comprehensive Guide to Audi’s Infotainment System
Audi USA. (2025). Smartphone Interface – Apple CarPlay & Android Auto Help. https://www.audiusa.com/en/support/help/smartphone-interface/
CarsDirect. (2024). Is Audi Making Climate Control A Subscription? https://www.carsdirect.com/automotive-news/is-audi-making-climate-control-a-subscription
Carluex. (2024). Apple CarPlay Price: How Much Does It Cost to Install in Your Car? https://www.carluex.store/blogs/posts/apple-carplay-price
Reddit r/Audi. (2024). Can someone explain Audi connect pricing to me?
Can someone explain Audi connect pricing to me? And possibly the principles of customer service to Audi?
by inAudi
GearShifters. (2022). Does Audi Support Wireless CarPlay?
Does Audi Support Wireless Carplay
Reddit r/automobil. (2025). Getting Apple CarPlay retrofitted in an Audi.
Verrückt: Apple Car Play bei Audi nachrüsten lassen:
byu/This_Ad_3459 inautomobil

Chien Nguyen Van

I am a senior automotive analyst at Autvex. Expert vehicle evaluations, in-depth reviews, and objective analysis helping readers make informed automotive decisions with years of industry experience.