ZDNET writer compares ChatGPT and Perplexity as CarPlay voice assistants
Updated
Updated · ZDNet · May 1
ZDNET writer compares ChatGPT and Perplexity as CarPlay voice assistants
10 articles · Updated · ZDNet · May 1
Using an iPhone on iOS 26.4 in a 2025 Toyota Camry, the writer found ChatGPT works on free and paid tiers, while Perplexity requires a $20-a-month Pro subscription.
Perplexity handled directions, nearby restaurant searches, calendar access and reminders, but failed to start Spotify hands-free in CarPlay; neither assistant could place calls, send texts or play music reliably.
ChatGPT was judged better for conversational use, storytelling, book recommendations and passing time, reflecting Apple's new support for third-party CarPlay assistants as an alternative to Siri for complex questions.
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