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People seem to be using gadgets like tablets and smartphones everywhere—restaurants have smartphone apps to let customers see their menu and tap their orders in; professors are now using tablets to deliver the day’s lessons; there’s even an Apple iPad in a Toyota Corolla. It’s interesting, innovative, and says a lot about our future with these kinds of gadgets. Let’s take a closer look at how tablets are being used in cars, and if you can have one in your Corolla, too. A caveat: safety concerns Is it safe though? In a report done by the United States’ National Safety Council, it was found that 28 percent of traffic accidents occur when people are preoccupied with their cell phones while driving. In many countries, texting while driving is strictly prohibited. And now that there are more gadgets that we are dependent on for almost everything, we can also assume that the number of accidents may increase, especially since we can never seem to let them out of our grasp. Gadget spotlight The iPad Mini is Apple’s newest product, a smaller alternative to the company’s bestselling line of tablets. At 7.9 inches, it is a handy gadget that’s great for browsing, sharing photos, playing games, and of course, playing music and consulting maps, which are the primary reasons why it was installed by an audio system specialist in a 2012 Corolla sedan. The Florida-based company that specializes in providing their customers with a customized sound system for vehicles created a special console on the dashboard to fit an Apple iPad in a Toyota Corolla. The Mini can be easily slid into the console snugly. Uses and cost The Mini provides a touch-screen interface, and if you’re already adept at using the gadget, it can make for a great navigation system and media player. The installation cost for the Mini starts at around 800 US dollars, excluding the cost of the tablet. If you think that’ a little bit too much but would still like to adapt your iPad—or any other tablet—in your car, you can buy accessories that surely cost less but could function just as well. The alternative: iPad accessories The closest thing you can have to a console-mounted tablet is a tablet that’s set up near the front seat using a window suction mount or an air vent mount. That way, you can adjust the display according to your preference. If you want to install an Apple iPad in a Toyota Corolla for your passengers’ entertainment, there are back seat mounts you can buy. To keep your tablet powered up during a long trip, you can get a cigarette lighter adapter that supports the gadget’s output requirements. You would also need to have Internet connection; there are 3G and 4G WiFi routers available on the market that can easily turn your car into a WiFi hotspot. Want to hear that playlist you made for your surfing trip? No problem. Connecting your Apple iPad in the Toyota Corolla to your sound system is easy using a mini headphone plug and adapter, or through USB connection. With all these accessories, you don’t need an expensive customized console just to be able to use your Apple iPad in the Toyota Corolla. A reminder though: safety first! Keep your eyes on the road and be alert to avoid any accidents. Have fun!
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