Why CarPlay GPX navigation is different
Most navigation apps rebuild a route between points. That can change the roads you planned. A GPX file already contains the full track. Roavic draws that polyline on CarPlay and guides you along it — so the drive matches the file you imported.
What you need
- An iPhone with Roavic installed
- A .gpx file (from Strava, Komoot, Garmin, or any export)
- A car with CarPlay (wired or wireless)
Step 1 — Import the GPX on iPhone
Open the .gpx from Files, AirDrop, Safari, Mail, or the iOS share sheet. Roavic imports the track, shows a preview with distance and points, and saves it in recent rides.
Step 2 — Connect CarPlay
Plug in your iPhone or connect wirelessly. On the car display, open Roavic. Your route can appear as a preview on the CarPlay map.
Step 3 — Start navigation
Tap Start on CarPlay, or start from iPhone. Guidance syncs: live map, turn instructions, distance to the next maneuver, ETA, and voice prompts.
Controls on the car screen
- Start / Stop navigation
- Recent routes picker
- Zoom in and out
- Follow vs overview camera
- Voice guidance on/off
You can keep your eyes on the road and still manage the ride from the dashboard.
Tips for a smooth drive
- Import the route before you leave — cellular coverage can be weak on the road
- Use the sample route in the app to test CarPlay at home
- Toggle voice if you already have music or podcasts playing