I drove with Apple CarPlay for over 25,000 miles last year - these apps were the most essential

["As someone who spends a lot of time on the road, I've had the opportunity to put Apple CarPlay through its paces. Over the past 12 months, I've driven more than 25,000 miles, and I've found that having the right apps can make all the difference. From navigation and weather to music and audiobooks, here are the apps that I've found to be the most essential for a smooth and enjoyable driving experience.

When it comes to navigation, I'm a big fan of Waze. I've been using it for years, and while it has its limitations, it's proven to be reliable and effective. Of course, there are other great options out there, including Google Maps and Apple Maps, and it's really a matter of personal preference.

If you're looking for an alternative, you might want to consider OsmAnd Maps, which offers offline and off-road capabilities. Weather apps are also crucial for staying safe on the road. I use Carrot Weather and Weather on the Way to stay up-to-date on the latest forecast.

Carrot Weather is a powerful app with a highly customizable personality, while Weather on the Way provides a quick and easy-to-use overview of the weather along your route. When it comes to music and audiobooks, I've found that it's best to stick with apps that you're already familiar with. Apple Music, Spotify, and Audible are all great options, and they integrate seamlessly with CarPlay.

If you're looking for a more personalized experience, you might want to consider using playlists and stations to make it easier to find the music and audiobooks you want to listen to. Other apps that I've found to be useful include GasBuddy and ChargePoint for finding gas stations and charging points, and EasyPark and SpotHero for finding parking. These apps may not be essential, but they can certainly make your driving experience more convenient.

Overall, I've found that having the right apps can make a big difference when driving with Apple CarPlay. By choosing apps that are easy to use and integrate well with the platform, you can stay safe, entertained, and connected on the road."]