Next Level Dashboard with iPad

Introduction

In today's fast-paced world, many of us spend around 30% of our waking hours inside our cars, whether commuting to work, attending meetings, or going on vacation. While traveling, many people find inspiration and creativity in their vehicles. However, the experience is often marred by the poor quality of car dashboards and infotainment systems. Whether in an older or a high-end car, users frequently encounter slow, low-quality, and hard-to-use systems, leading them to rely on their mobile phones instead. While solutions like CarPlay exist, they often come with high costs and limitations.

This issue prompted me to develop a sophisticated tool aimed specifically at maximizing the car experience. After six months of dedicated effort, I am excited to share a solution. Here's how to transform your car into an advanced dashboard using an iPad.

Requirements for the Project

Before diving into the solution, there are several key components you'll need:

1. A Car Mount: A flat, stable surface is necessary for securely placing the iPad.
2. An iPad with Solo Networking: The GPS functionality of this model allows for quick and responsive navigation.
3. Charging Solution: Keeping the iPad charged is essential for prolonged use.
4. iPadOS Shortcuts: Customizing the iPad experience through a special desktop and focus mode.
5. Face ID for Convenience: Quick device unlocking is crucial while driving.
6. Cooling System: It's important to ensure that the iPad does not overheat in hot weather.
7. Magnetic Case: Allows for easy attachment and removal of the iPad when not in the car.
8. Bluetooth Player: An automatic connection with the iPad enhances the audio experience.

Implementing the Solution

Step 1: Acquire a Case

Choose a magnetic case for your iPad. I opted for a Fio case and modified it for better functionality by removing the display cover section, leaving only the magnetic back.

Step 2: Create a Mount

Using a part of my car manufacturer’s mount, I split it in half and designed an adapter using a 3D printer. This part connects to my folio case with an adhesive, ensuring it securely holds the iPad in a landscape orientation, with the Face ID feature facing the driver for easy unlocking.

Step 3: Set Up Shortcuts

I crafted several shortcuts for the iPad, which include:

• Changing the wallpaper to a non-distracting black background
• Adjusting the volume so that music plays at a moderate level
• Setting text size to extra-large for better visibility in apps like Maps
• Activating high-contrast mode for clearer display

These shortcuts can also be downloaded from my website.

Step 4: Establish a Focus Mode

In iPad settings, I created a Focus mode labeled 'Car' that showcases a dedicated desktop with various widgets for quick access to traffic, weather, and other relevant information. This desktop only appears when the Focus mode is active.

Step 5: Automate Shortcuts

To further streamline the experience, I set up automations to quickly initiate and deactivate the Focus mode with a single touch.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can significantly enhance your in-car experience. The upgraded system allows for voice notes, shopping lists, podcasts, and even console gaming when parked. This upgrade has transformed my travel experience and I find it hard to imagine driving without my iPad.

Important Note: While I take full responsibility for my solution, I advise prioritizing road safety. Use your device only when the vehicle is stopped, or rely on Siri for hands-free commands. I cannot be held responsible for any damages or legal issues that arise from attempting this system.

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Keywords

Next Level Dashboard, iPad solution, car infotainment, shortcuts, Face ID, focus mode, Bluetooth connection, magnetic case, driving experience.

FAQ

1. What do I need for the iPad car dashboard project?
You will need a car mount, an iPad with cellular capabilities, a charging solution, iPadOS for shortcuts, a cooling system, a magnetic case, and a Bluetooth player.

2. How do I create shortcuts for my iPad in the car?
You can create shortcuts that change wallpapers, adjust volume levels, modify text size, and activate high-contrast mode. These can also be downloaded from my website.

3. Is it safe to use an iPad while driving?
Safety is paramount. Only use the iPad when parked or rely on Siri for voice commands to minimize distraction.

4. Can I customize the iPad to show specific information while driving?
Yes, by creating a Focus mode, you can customize the iPad to display relevant widgets for traffic, weather, and other information when you are in the car.

5. Where can I find more information or access shortcuts?
Additional information and downloadable shortcuts can be found on my website linked in the video description.