What Is Audi Connect? Features, myAudi App Setup, and How to Use Every Connected Service in Your Audi
Most Audi® owners use roughly a third of the connected technology built into their vehicle. Between Audi connect, the myAudi app, the virtual cockpit, and the MMI® system, there's a significant amount of capability sitting under the surface that never gets activated. Whether you recently took delivery of a new Audi A5 in Greenville or you've been driving your Q5 for two years and never fully explored the technology, this guide breaks down every connected feature in straightforward language and shows you how to set everything up.
Audi Connect Explained: What It Is and What It Does for Greenville Drivers
Audi connect is the umbrella term for Audi's connected services platform. It's the system that links your Audi to the internet and to your smartphone, enabling real-time features the vehicle can't deliver on its own. Audi structures the platform into tiers, each offering different levels of connectivity.
Audi connect CARE is included with the purchase of every new Audi. It provides core remote services: emergency call, remote lock and unlock, remote engine start on equipped models, stolen vehicle locator, and vehicle status reports. These are the foundation-level features that keep you connected to your car whether you're at your desk in downtown Greenville or shopping at Haywood Mall.
Audi connect NAV adds navigation-specific services on top of CARE. This includes real-time traffic information overlaid on the navigation system, satellite imagery and maps, and point-of-interest search with current data. The traffic feature uses live conditions, not historical patterns, so if there's congestion on I-85 near Greer or a slowdown on Woodruff Road, you're seeing it as it happens.
Audi connect PLUS takes everything further with in-vehicle Wi-Fi, turning your Audi into a mobile hotspot for passengers' devices, and access to the integrated in-vehicle app store on newer models. Starting with 2025 models, the Audi connect NAV trial subscription was extended to three years on select trims, giving owners an extended window to experience the full navigation suite.
Did you know? On equipped models, Audi's navigation system integrates with the available head-up display to project augmented reality directions onto the road ahead through your windshield. Turns and lane guidance appear to float in your actual line of sight, which is genuinely less distracting than glancing at a phone mount during an unfamiliar route through Simpsonville or Mauldin.
The myAudi App: Setting Up Remote Access to Your Vehicle
The myAudi app is available for both iOS and Android and serves as your remote connection to the vehicle. Setting it up takes a few minutes and unlocks features you'll use regularly.
Start by downloading myAudi from the App Store or Google Play. Create an Audi ID or sign in if you already have one. Add your vehicle by entering its VIN or using the in-vehicle MMI system to link your account. Once connected, you'll need to register as the Key User, which is the account holder authorized to access remote vehicle functions. Your dealer can assist with the verification step if needed.
Once you're set up as Key User, the app provides remote lock and unlock for doors and windows, vehicle location on a map (useful in large parking areas like Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport), vehicle status reports including fuel level and range, service scheduling that connects directly to your preferred Audi dealer, maintenance reminders and upcoming service alerts, and the ability to add up to five secondary users who can also access vehicle information through the app.
Pro tip: The service scheduling feature within the myAudi app lets you book appointments directly from a notification when your vehicle flags an upcoming service. Select your preferred date, describe any additional concerns, and confirm. No phone call required, and you can set Audi Greenville as your home dealer for direct scheduling.
For electric and plug-in hybrid models, the myAudi app adds EV-specific capabilities: remote charging management, charge scheduling, cabin preconditioning while the vehicle is still plugged in, and a route planner that accounts for real-time range and charging station availability.
The Virtual Cockpit: Getting More From the Digital Instrument Cluster
The Audi virtual cockpit is the fully digital instrument cluster positioned directly behind the steering wheel. On current models like the 2026 A5 and Q5, it measures 11.9 inches and pairs with the 14.5-inch MMI® touchscreen to create what Audi calls the Digital Stage.
Most owners leave the virtual cockpit on its default view and never explore further. That's a missed opportunity. The system offers multiple display modes you can switch between using the steering wheel controls.
The classic view displays a traditional dial layout for drivers who prefer the familiar speedometer and tachometer format. The infotainment view shifts the gauges to smaller positions and expands the center area to show media, phone, or navigation information in the driver's direct line of sight. The full-screen navigation view is where the real value appears for daily commuting: the entire instrument cluster becomes a detailed map, with speed and essential driving data overlaid on top. You never need to glance right toward the center screen for directions.
Did you know? On 2026 models, the steering wheel controls have been updated to physical scroll wheels, replacing the touch-sensitive buttons that many owners of earlier models found frustrating. This change makes switching between virtual cockpit views and adjusting volume more tactile and reliable, especially while driving on I-385 into downtown or navigating Spartanburg traffic.
On 2026 A5 and Q5 models, smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay® can now display directly in the virtual cockpit, not just on the center MMI screen. This means phone-based navigation appears right in the driver's line of sight, combining the convenience of your phone's maps with the positioning of the instrument cluster.
MMI System Tips That Improve Your Daily Experience
The MMI infotainment system is the central touchscreen that manages navigation, media, vehicle settings, phone connectivity, and climate controls. On current models, it's a 14.5-inch display with a responsive interface. Here are practical tips that improve daily interaction.
The voice assistant is the most underused feature in the system. Instead of tapping through menus, hold the voice button on the steering wheel and speak naturally. Say "navigate to Falls Park" or "set the temperature to 72" and the system responds without you touching the screen. On 2026 models, the Audi assistant gains self-learning capabilities and can answer questions from the vehicle's own logbook, like when the last oil change was performed.
Customizable home screen layout lets you rearrange the tiles on the main MMI display. Move navigation to the top position if that's what you use most, or prioritize media controls. Remove tiles for features you don't use. Most owners never realize the layout is adjustable.
Split-screen mode displays navigation on one half and media or phone information on the other. It's a practical layout for commuters who want directions visible while still seeing what's playing through the audio system.
For models equipped with the 10.9-inch passenger display, the front passenger can control navigation, browse media, or stream video independently. A dynamic privacy filter prevents the driver from seeing the passenger's screen content, reducing distraction. This feature is available on select trims of the Audi Q7 and other models equipped with the Technology package.
Pro tip: If you've been relying exclusively on Apple CarPlay or Android Auto and ignoring Audi's built-in navigation, try the native system for a week. The built-in nav integrates with the virtual cockpit full-screen mode and the available head-up display in ways that phone-based navigation can't replicate. Many owners tell us they switch back permanently once they experience the difference.
Common Questions About Audi Connect and myAudi App in Greenville, SC
What is Audi connect and what services does it include?
Audi connect is Audi's connected services platform that links your vehicle to the internet and your smartphone. It's structured in tiers: CARE (included with every new Audi) provides remote lock/unlock, remote start, stolen vehicle locator, and vehicle status reports. NAV adds real-time traffic and navigation services. PLUS adds in-vehicle Wi-Fi and the integrated app store on compatible models.
How do I set up the myAudi app and link it to my Audi?
Download the myAudi app from the App Store or Google Play, create an Audi ID, and add your vehicle using its VIN. You'll then register as the Key User through the app, with dealer verification completing the process. Once linked, you can remotely lock or unlock your Audi, check vehicle status, schedule service, and access additional connected features from your smartphone.
Does Audi connect work with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on current Audi models and work alongside Audi connect services. On 2026 models like the A5 and Q5, CarPlay integration extends to the virtual cockpit instrument cluster, so phone-based navigation displays directly in the driver's line of sight. Audi connect's native navigation and CarPlay can both be used depending on driver preference.
Where can I get help setting up Audi connect near Greenville, SC?
Audi Greenville offers technology walkthroughs for both new and existing owners. Whether you just took delivery or you've owned your Audi for years and never set up the myAudi app, the team can walk you through every feature in the vehicle at your pace. The dealership serves owners across Greenville, Spartanburg, Greer, Easley, Anderson, and the surrounding Upstate South Carolina communities.
Getting the Full Experience From Your Audi at Audi Greenville
The technology built into your Audi was designed to make every drive more connected, more intuitive, and more enjoyable. But only if it's set up and configured. If the myAudi app is still sitting undownloaded, the virtual cockpit hasn't been explored beyond its default view, or you've never tried speaking to the voice assistant, there's a better driving experience waiting for you. The team at Audi Greenville is available for technology walkthroughs at the showroom. New owners, long-time owners, and anyone considering an Audi who wants to see the connected features in person are all welcome. No appointment required for a tech walkthrough.