Sea-Doo’s Vision: Integrating Apple CarPlay into Jet Skis
In an era where technology seamlessly integrates into various aspects of our lives, the idea of bringing Apple’s CarPlay to personal watercraft is gaining traction. Sea-Doo, a leading manufacturer of jet skis and pontoons, is exploring the possibility of incorporating CarPlay into its future models, aiming to enhance the on-water experience for tech-savvy enthusiasts.
The Concept of CarPlay on Water
CarPlay, Apple’s infotainment platform, has become a staple in many vehicles, offering users a familiar interface to access navigation, music, and communication apps. The prospect of extending this functionality to jet skis presents an intriguing opportunity. Imagine skimming across the waves while having access to your favorite playlists, receiving calls, or even navigating unfamiliar waters with ease.
Sea-Doo’s Consideration and Challenges
Christian Comtois, Sea-Doo’s Global Product Strategy Manager, has acknowledged the company’s interest in adopting CarPlay. Given that Sea-Doo’s sister brand, Can-Am, already utilizes CarPlay on its three-wheeled motorcycles via a 10.25-inch touchscreen, the transition to jet skis seems feasible. Both brands share similar display systems, suggesting that integrating CarPlay into Sea-Doo’s watercraft wouldn’t require a complete overhaul.
However, the journey to bring CarPlay to the water isn’t without its hurdles. One significant challenge is obtaining approval from Apple. Comtois highlighted the difficulty in getting Apple to accept applications for off-road or powersports vehicles. The process demands both approval and engineering adjustments to the instrument cluster to ensure compatibility and safety.
Existing Infotainment Systems and Potential Enhancements
Sea-Doo’s 2026 models are already equipped with advanced infotainment systems that display essential metrics like speed and fuel levels. These systems also support marine navigation through the BRP Go! app and offer media playback from connected smartphones, complete with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities. Essentially, these features mirror in-car entertainment systems but are tailored for aquatic environments.
Integrating CarPlay could further elevate this experience. While navigation might be less practical on water due to the limitations of Apple Maps or Google Maps in marine settings, the primary advantage lies in accessing music apps. This addition would require further development but could significantly enhance the enjoyment of riders.
Consumer Demand and Future Prospects
There’s a clear indication that consumers are interested in having CarPlay on their jet skis. Comtois noted that people find CarPlay sexy and appreciate its familiarity from their cars. However, the company must weigh the benefits against the effort required to implement this feature.
Beyond technical considerations, the open nature of water bodies offers excellent conditions for RF propagation, particularly for 5G signals. With minimal obstructions like trees or buildings, riders could enjoy extended connectivity ranges, enhancing the functionality of CarPlay features. However, it’s advisable to avoid areas with large waves to maintain optimal signal strength.
Apple’s Stance and Industry Trends
Apple’s approval is a pivotal factor in this endeavor. The tech giant has been cautious about extending CarPlay to off-road or powersports applications. Comtois expressed confidence that, with time and the right approach, Sea-Doo could secure the necessary approvals. This would involve meeting specific requirements, such as integrating a microphone, to ensure the system’s functionality aligns with Apple’s standards.
The broader industry landscape shows a mix of approaches to CarPlay integration. For instance, BMW has decided not to support CarPlay Ultra, focusing instead on enhancing its proprietary iDrive system. Conversely, Ford remains committed to CarPlay, emphasizing consumer choice and access to technology. These varying stances highlight the complexities manufacturers face when deciding to integrate third-party infotainment systems.
Conclusion
The potential integration of Apple CarPlay into Sea-Doo’s jet skis represents a fusion of technology and recreation, aiming to provide riders with a more connected and enjoyable experience. While challenges exist, particularly in securing Apple’s approval and addressing technical requirements, the interest from both the company and consumers suggests a promising future. As technology continues to permeate every facet of our lives, the day when jet ski enthusiasts can seamlessly connect their iPhones to their watercraft may not be far off.
