If you’ve been following recent car technology trends at all, then you’ve likely noticed more and more new cars are offering the ability to let passengers control their smartphone’s apps via the car’s infotainment touchscreen.
Smartphone-supporting programmes like Android Auto and Apple CarPlay have become hot topics and they are being highlighted as a supported feature of new cars’ infotainment systems more and more. Alongside these programmes though there is also what’s called MirrorLink, a popular system which also allows motorists to bring their phone and car closer together.
In this guide, we delve into what exactly MirrorLink is, how to use it and cars that support MirrorLink.
What is MirrorLink connection?
A MirrorLink connection allows a motorist who has a compatible smartphone and infotainment system to mirror their phone screen on to their car’s touchscreen.
Its goal is to allow users to safely access information, entertainment and communications features from their phone while driving.
How does MirrorLink work? How do you use it?
Motorists can access MirrorLink on their phone by using a USB cable or Bluetooth to connect to their car’s infotainment system. Once they’ve done this, they’ll be able to access a selection of their phone’s apps and features via the car’s touchscreen.
The user should check in advance what smartphone apps are compatible with MirrorLink so they can download them before connecting the phone to their car. A simple online search should confirm which relevant apps are available.
The infotainment system’s menu screen should include an option for MirrorLink which will confirm connection and open up access to the smartphone apps. Accessing the apps via the touchscreen should be a straightforward process once the connection is complete and your phone will recharge if its connected via a USB.
If your car has multiple phone systems installed, such as Android Auto and MirrorLink at the same time, then you may need to go into the car’s settings on the infotainment screen to confirm it’s MirrorLink you want to access.
In regards compatibility, MirrorLink is available on most Android smartphones from Sony and Samsung, plus some older Nokia Symbian phones. MirrorLink does not work with any Apple iPhone.
MirrorLink compatible cars
MirrorLink is available on new cars from many popular brands, including quite a few owned by the Volkswagen Group. You’re likely to find MirrorLink on any current SEAT, Skoda or Volkswagen you come across.
Other brands that support MirrorLink include Citroen, Peugeot, DS, Honda, Toyota and Smart. Specific models from certain other brands may also support MirrorLink, like the Mercedes A-Class and MG GS for instance.
What apps work with MirrorLink?
So, what phone apps can you even use on your car’s infotainment system via MirrorLink? As well as radio, travel info and weather update apps, MirrorLink can also give drivers safe access to Spotify and social media apps including Facebook and Twitter.
The MirrorLink version of these apps create bigger selection icons which make it easy for a driver to select options. That’s why it’s so necessary to download apps on your phone which are compatible with the MirrorLink system.
Those who search for more MirrorLink apps could find more intriguing features such as Glympse for example, which lets you send your current location to friends or family (with the aid of GPS).
CarPlay vs MirrorLink
The most significant difference when comparing MirrorLink to Apple CarPlay is the fact that the latter is usable for iPhones. So, Apple users that want to access their phone’s apps via their car’s touchscreen will inevitably use CarPlay.
If you want to learn more about Apple CarPlay you can read our separate guide here.