Flitsmeister version 9.0 finally brings the integration in Apple CarPlay. For example, the popular flash app fully integrates into cars that support this iPhone function. The makers took plenty of time. Apple already opened the doors to external navigation apps in September 2018. But the wait is rewarded: Flitsmeister takes the throne immediately with this update.
While competitors Waze and Google Maps were readily available on CarPlay, an update of the fine-saving Flitsmeister was not forthcoming. Despite the promise in November to launch a working CarPlay version in 2018. Beta testers were already able to taste the new features of version 9.0.
What is CarPlay?
Our prediction: This update from Flitsmeister will revolutionize CarPlay navigation land. For Dutch iPhone users, CarPlay is now really indispensable. The Apple system is the safe brother of the iPhone for in the car. Connecting the iPhone to the entertainment system allows safe navigation in the car via apps on the smartphone. You can also dictate WhatsApp messages, have texts read to you, listen to Spotify or ask Siri for help. Without really taking your hands off the wheel. CarPlay is usually already built in at the factory or can be added via external systems from brands such as Kenwood, Alpine, Pioneer or Parrot. More than 400 car models support CarPlay.
Convenient is the option to choose alternative routes. Competitor Waze does not have this option.
Flitsmeister navigation
Since version 7.0, Flitsmeister has been extended with navigation functionality. It was never really convincing, but due to ever-improving traffic information, it remained a faithful tool for the road that worked in the background. With the latest update, Flitsmeister penetrates the main screen of your car. It is the ideal one-stop-shop for navigation, speed camera detection and traffic jam alerts.
At first glance, navigation apps Waze and Flitsmeister under CarPlay seem exactly the same. The difference is in the details. Flitsmeister still feels a bit rough and lacks basic functionality that Waze does have. For example, it is impossible to adjust settings when CarPlay is active. By default, the spoken navigation instructions are turned on. Waze has the option to switch between no notifications, voice notifications or only warnings, such as mobile speed cameras, speed cameras and traffic jams. With Flitsmeister, the phone must first be disconnected from CarPlay in order to make the adjustments in the app itself. Because when CarPlay is active, the Flitsmeister app on the phone literally goes black. That seems like a small point for commuters who drive the same route every day, but switching quickly to spoken messages on an unknown route is not an option. Then you really have to disconnect the phone while driving. Which can lead to dangerous situations.
Flashmaster or Waze?
This is the only flaw we could find in this latest update. Because otherwise this app looks fantastic! The traffic jam reports are so good that every delay is detected. This, of course, thanks to the 1.4 million users in the Netherlands who constantly pass on traffic information to Flitsmeister. The app is also smart and seems to calculate where you are driving. In our case, for example, it was immediately seen that the interchange lane was driven on the A1 where there was no traffic jam, in contrast to the main lane. Small point for improvement: competitor Waze advises in advance to take the switch lane. Flitsmeister did not do this. But Waze again does not see where exactly is being driven: main lane or alternate lane. Flitsmeister also seems to react very quickly to changes in direction of travel. Something that Waze often takes a long time to do.
Thanks to CarPlay, calling and flash notifications go hand in hand. Something that is often a drama with the standard navigation systems of car manufacturers. Either there is a call or there is an audible flash detection. During the test, Flitsmeister will continue to emit loud beeps while calling. Don't worry, your conversation partner will not hear anything about these notifications. The displayed messages such as road works on the main screen are also useful
Flitsmeister does not deny its roots. On the main screen in the car, the top right corner not only shows the speed limit, but also the current GPS speed. And that takes another point compared to Waze. With the option to also select alternative routes via the car, Waze definitively moves to the position of second best. Because he can't.
Flitsmeister's navigation still falls short on one point. The search functionality of new destinations must be smarter and better. You have to enter more specific information, while – of course – Google Maps, but also Waze, can do this with broader keywords.
At the top right, the permitted and driven speed is driven. Which we had to exceed (once) for testing purposes, of course.
Flash Master on the App Store
You can download the latest version from Apple's App Store. Android users will have to wait a little longer. Google is less eager to set up Android Auto for strange navigation apps. Flitsmeister promises to come up with an update soon if this is possible.
Conclusion
Flitsmeister beats its competitors on almost all fronts. Perfect traffic information, flash information that is always up to date and constantly updated maps. The seamless integration into CarPlay makes up for all the waiting. Google Maps and Waze can be turned off. Flash master must be on. Certainly if they tackle the points for improvement: the settings of spoken navigation options and a smarter navigation database.
