Apple

Volkswagen has added Siri capability to its Car-Net smartphone application, allowing owners to use their voice for functions like locking, unlocking and honking the horn. Owners need to be running iOS12 on their device, and can then just say things like "Hey Siri, lock my car" to make the Car-Net integration work. Along with the iPhone, you're able to control your car using an Apple Watch, for a proper Get Smart vibe in your Volkswagen.

With the launch of iOS 12, the operating system behind the iPhone later this year, Apple users will soon be able to use Google Maps and other third-party navigation apps via the infotainment system of compatible cars. The announcement was made as part of today's keynote speech at Apple's annual Worldwide Developer Conference (WWDC) in San Diego, California.

Tim Cook, CEO of Apple, has confirmed the tech giant is working on autonomous vehicle technology. In an interview with Bloomberg Television recorded at last week's Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), Cook admitted, "We’re focusing on autonomous [driving] systems." Looking into his crystal ball, Cook says there's a "major disruption looming" for the automotive industry, thanks to ride sharing, self-driving technology, and electric vehicles, which he described as a "marvellous experience".

American technology giant Apple has at last confirmed its plans to become a player in the coming autonomous vehicle market, in a letter to the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration - although the extent of its plans remains unclear. Dated November 22, 2016, the document mentions areas where Apple is developing technologies and systems that could contribute to autonomous vehicles.

Reports overnight suggested technology giant Apple had moved to purchase part or all of McLaren, but the British luxury sports car maker has moved quickly to deny any such talks have occurred. Three anonymous sources with inside knowledge have told The Financial Times that Apple has approached McLaren Technology, which owns around 80 per cent of McLaren Automotive, about a possible takeover of, or a strategic investment in, the British automaker.