Driving technology has advanced rapidly in recent years. Innovations like Sat Nav have revolutionized how we get around by providing the shortest and quickest routes using live traffic data.
As stated in an article by https://iemlabs.com/blogs/securing-the-future-of-automotive-transport-the-role-of-cybersecurity/, securing the future of automotive transport through cybersecurity is a growing priority. Driving apps have also developed incredibly, but you should never use a mobile device while your car’s engine is on.
This article covers our 10 must-have driving apps, with reviews.
10. Native Navigation Apps
- Cost: Free
- Available: iOS & Android
- CarPlay/Android Auto: Both
A phone’s built-in navigation apps, like Apple Maps, are simple but feature-packed. They show nearby points of interest like petrol stations and restaurants and include multiple modes for exploring, driving, public transport, and satellite views.
Conclusion: These are great entry-level apps that come pre-installed. They are easy to use but sometimes have inaccurate traffic information. Rating: 6/10.
9. Smart Dash Cam
- Cost: Free
- Available: iOS & Android
- CarPlay/Android Auto: None
Conclusion: This app turns your phone into a dash cam, but it’s best used only to see if a dedicated device is right for you. It’s buggy, can be a distraction for drivers, and drains your battery quickly. Notifications can also interrupt recordings, which take up a lot of storage space. Furthermore, using a phone as a primary recording device raises concerns around automotive transport cybersecurity, as it lacks the dedicated security features of specialized hardware. Rating: 3/10.
8. PlugShare
- Cost: Free
- Available: iOS & Android
- CarPlay/Android Auto: None
With the rise of electric vehicles (EVs), the PlugShare app helps locate EV chargers. It shows whether a charger is available, in use, or out of service.
Conclusion: This app helps find the nearest EV charger, with ratings and reviews to assist in deciding where to charge.
7. Waze
- Cost: Free
- Available: iOS & Android
- CarPlay/Android Auto: Yes
Waze is a top navigation app that uses user-submitted data for roadworks, accidents, and speed cameras. The main downside is that this data can be inaccurate. A dedicated detector like the Road Angel Pure is more reliable for speed camera detection.
Conclusion: Waze is a great free navigation system, but user-submitted content can be unreliable. For a dedicated sat nav, the Snooper range is an alternative.
6. Google Maps
- Cost: Free
- Available: iOS & Android
- CarPlay/Android Auto: Yes
A top choice for a navigation app, Google Maps is the most up-to-date and precise option available. Google verifies user-submitted content, ensuring a reliable navigation experience.
Conclusion: While Google Maps is a strong contender, a modern standalone sat nav with constant updates is the leading choice for navigation. Partners at Snooper offer a range of units.
5. PetrolPrices
- Cost: Free
- Available: iOS & Android
- CarPlay/Android Auto: No
PetrolPrices shows petrol and diesel prices. This is useful when fuel is low, helping to find the nearest and cheapest petrol station.
Conclusion: For those needing to find a petrol station quickly without overspending, this app is a practical solution.
4. JustPark
- Cost: Free
- Available: iOS & Android
- CarPlay/Android Auto: Yes
JustPark helps find parking spaces, providing details like EV charger availability. It covers public parking and private driveways, which can be booked for as little as 10 minutes or up to a month.
Conclusion: JustPark is highly rated. The ability to find and book a parking space before arrival—via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto — is unmatched.
3. Road Angel App
- Cost: Free
- Available: iOS & Android
- CarPlay/Android Auto: No
The Road Angel app is the all-in-one companion for Road Angel products. It allows users to set up and manage devices, access dash cam footage, view metrics, and more.
Conclusion: As the products evolve, so does the app. It is constantly updated to be a guardian on the road.
2. myRAC
- Cost: Free
- Available: iOS & Android
- CarPlay/Android Auto: No
This is a great all-in-one driving app. Users can request breakdown assistance, find cheap local petrol, and set reminders for a vehicle’s service, MOT, and insurance. It also has a route planner and the latest driving news.
Conclusion: It was a close call for the top spot. With so many useful features, this app combines the functions of many others, making it incredibly handy.
1. Spotify
- Cost: Free (with a Premium option)
- Available: iOS & Android
- CarPlay/Android Auto: Yes
The top spot goes to Spotify for music and podcasts. With CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, endless playlists, and a built-in lyrics feature, it’s a must-have.
Conclusion: With its huge library and seamless navigation, Spotify delivers the ultimate streaming experience, allowing for the creation of a personalized music journey.