How to Get Apple CarPlay on a 2019 Toyota Highlander

You won’t get Apple CarPlay standard on a 2019 Highlander, but you still have options with aftermarket products.
Written by Olivia Rose
Reviewed by Shannon Martin
The 2019 Toyota Highlander does not have Apple CarPlay and isn’t currently eligible for Toyota’s Audio Multimedia Enhancement program—but aftermarket options are available.
  • The 2019 Highlander does not come with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
  • You can use your iPhone to play music using Bluetooth or the AUX jack.
  • You can replace your current radio head with an aftermarket CarPlay-supported system.

The 2019 Toyota Highlander does not come with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto

Apple CarPlay did not become standard in the Toyota Highlander until 2020. CarPlay uses a combination of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to simplify the streaming process in your vehicle.
The 2019 also lacks Android Auto, which usually comes with Apple CarPlay to give Android users an integration option. 

Toyota Highlander infotainment system

The 2019 Toyota Highlander comes with Toyota’s Entune infotainment system, which is displayed on a 6.1-inch touchscreen for the base trims and a larger 8-inch screen for all other trims. The system has steering wheel controls, allows for Bluetooth streaming, and comes with an auxiliary input jack and five USB ports for charging devices.
In other words, you can still plug your phone in the AUX to stream audio, but the experience won’t be as integrated as it would be with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. 
You can use wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto with your voice to control Siri or Waze, which is ultimately much safer than tapping on your phone to control navigation, music, or phone calls.

How to add Apple CarPlay to a 2019 Toyota Highlander

You can upgrade your OEM system with an aftermarket digital multimedia receiver with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities. 
Aftermarket options: $400 to $1,000
If you are tech-savvy and mechanically inclined, you can swap out the stereo systems yourself. If not, it would be best to speak with a car radio technician. 
Why? Not only do you need to install the head unit properly, but you also need to know which receivers are compatible with your Highlander, what software to download, and what, if any, accessories you need to purchase for the best Apple CarPlay experience.
Bear in mind that any new products might mess with the existing rearview camera and reverse camera, which are available on the 2019 Highlander. While having an infotainment system installed professionally will cost more, a specialist can point you in the right direction to avoid damaging your backup camera and camera system.
Plus, stereo replacements are considered
car mods
—which could impact your car insurance costs. You may also want to consider
sound system insurance
.

Toyota models that come standard with Apple CarPlay? 

Toyota started including Apple CarPlay in some vehicles in 2019—it wasn’t until 2020 that they included CarPlay in most of their vehicles. 
Here is a comprehensive list of all Toyota models that have Apple CarPlay.
Model
Years
Toyota Avalon
2019 – 2022
Toyota Avanza
2021 – 2023
Toyota Aygo
2018 – 2022
Toyota Aygo X
2023
Toyota bZ4X
2023
Toyota C-HR
2019 – 2023
Toyota Camry
2019 – 2023
Toyota Corolla
2020 – 2023
Toyota Corolla Hatchback
2019 – 2023
Toyota Corolla Cross
2022 – 2023
Toyota Crown
2023
Toyota GR Corolla
2023
Toyota GR Supra
2020 – 2023
Toyota Grand Highlander
2024
Toyota GR86
2022 – 2023
Toyota Highlander
2020 – 2023
Toyota Mirai
2021 – 2023
Toyota Prius
2020 – 2023
Toyota Prius Prime
2020 – 2023
Toyota RAV4
2019 – 2023
Toyota Sequoia
2020 – 2023
Toyota Sienna
2019 – 2023
Toyota Tacoma
2020 – 2023
Toyota Tundra
2020 – 2023
Toyota Yaris
2020 – 2023
Toyota Venza
2021 – 2023
Toyota Voxy
2022 – 2023
Toyota 4Runner
2020 – 2023
Toyota 86
2020 – 2021
 “After I bought my new car, the insurance companies tried charging me $315/month.
Jerry
, on the other hand, found me full coverage for only $220/month. Thank you!” —Mari E.
Don't get ripped off!
Estimate repairs near you with GarageGuard™ for free so you KNOW the fair price.
No spam or unwanted phone calls · No long forms
No spam or unwanted phone calls · No long forms · No fees
icon4.717k Ratings
5M+Drivers Joined
7M+Cars Garaged
Estimate your repair costs for free with GarageGuard™
Simplify your car maintenance with Jerry.
Try GarageGuard™

Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance

√
No long forms
√
No spam or unwanted phone calls
√
Quotes from top insurance companies
Find insurance savings