The Sidecar app, known for enhancing the Apple CarPlay experience, is set to remove its recently introduced web browser and video playback functionalities. This decision comes in response to a direct request from Apple, aligning with the company’s App Store guidelines.
Sidecar’s browser feature was designed with safety as a priority, operating exclusively when vehicles were stationary to prevent driver distraction. Despite these precautions, Apple has mandated the removal of this functionality. The development team at Sidecar expressed their disappointment but acknowledged the necessity to comply with Apple’s platform requirements.
For users who purchased the park and watch feature for $9.99, Sidecar is offering refunds. Instructions for requesting a refund are available within the Sidecar app.
This move highlights Apple’s stringent control over CarPlay applications, which are limited to specific categories to ensure user safety and maintain a consistent user experience. While some users seek more versatile functionalities, such as web browsing and video playback while parked, Apple’s policies currently restrict such features.
For those still interested in accessing video content on their vehicle’s built-in screen while parked, alternative solutions exist. Adapters capable of running Android applications and displaying CarPlay can serve as a workaround, though they may not offer the same seamless integration as native CarPlay features.
The removal of Sidecar’s browser and video playback features underscores the ongoing tension between third-party developers seeking to expand CarPlay’s capabilities and Apple’s commitment to safety and platform consistency. As the automotive and technology industries continue to evolve, it remains to be seen how CarPlay will adapt to user demands for more flexible in-car entertainment options.
