You cannot download apps directly onto a Toyota RAV4’s screen. On most RAV4s that have it, you install apps on your phone and show them on the display through Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, and you use the Toyota app on your phone for remote features. Which of these you get depends on the model year, as the sections below explain.
Which RAV4 years support phone apps on the screen
| Model years | What the screen supports |
|---|---|
| Through 2018 (for example 2016 Entune 2.0 units) | No Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. An Entune 2.0 system like the 2016 RAV4’s does not support them. |
| 2019 and later, fifth generation | Entune 3.0-era systems. Apple CarPlay came first. Android Auto was added as standard on all 2020 RAV4 models. |
| 2022 to 2025 | Wired CarPlay and Android Auto. Owners report that wireless support depends on the system type and appears with the newer Toyota Audio Multimedia head unit, around the 2023 model year. |
| 2026 and later, sixth generation | New Toyota Audio Multimedia system with a 10.5-inch or 12.9-inch touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, per Toyota. |
Trims and build dates vary, so the quickest check is to look at the screen and connect a phone. The owner’s manual for your model year lists what your head unit supports.
What changed with Entune
Older Toyotas used Entune, which had its own app suite on the screen. Toyota removed Pandora, OpenTable and Facebook Places from Entune in November 2018, and all Entune services were discontinued on October 30, 2023, according to Wikipedia’s summary. Any guide that tells you to install the Entune app is out of date. Its phone features moved into the Toyota app.
How to use apps on a RAV4 screen
Apple CarPlay
- Install the apps you want, such as maps, music and podcast apps, on your iPhone from the App Store.
- Make sure Siri is turned on, because CarPlay depends on it. Keep iOS up to date.
- Connect the iPhone with a good-quality USB cable to the RAV4’s USB port marked for data. On some vehicles only one of the ports supports CarPlay, so try another port if nothing happens.
- Accept the prompts on the phone and the screen. Choosing the option to always enable or allow it means it connects automatically next time.
- Tap the CarPlay icon or the app icon on the car screen to open your apps.
Android Auto
- Install the apps you want from Google Play on your Android phone. On recent Android versions Android Auto is built in; on older ones, install the Android Auto app.
- Connect the phone with a USB cable to the RAV4’s data USB port.
- Accept the permissions on the phone and enable Android Auto when the screen asks.
- Open your apps from the Android Auto home screen.
Wireless connection on 2026 and later models
Toyota says the new RAV4 system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Pair your phone by Bluetooth first, then follow the prompts on the screen and phone. Wireless setups also use the phone’s Wi-Fi, so keep Wi-Fi on. Steps differ slightly by phone, so check the owner’s manual for the exact wording.
The Toyota app and remote features
The Toyota app is separate from CarPlay. You install it from the App Store or Google Play, sign in with a Toyota account and add the vehicle. It provides connected-vehicle features such as remote functions and vehicle status. Which features you get depends on your RAV4 model year, hardware and subscription, so check Toyota’s connected services information for your vehicle. It does not add apps to the car screen.
Apps built into the 2026 RAV4 screen
Toyota says the 2026 RAV4’s system includes SiriusXM with 360L and integrated Spotify streaming through the vehicle’s built-in Wi-Fi. Full-screen turn-by-turn navigation on the gauge cluster requires an active Drive Connect subscription. The system also has a “Hey Toyota” voice assistant that handles basic commands on the device. These are manufacturer features, not a general app store, and subscriptions or trial periods may apply.
Troubleshooting
- Nothing happens when you plug in: try a different cable, preferably the one that came with the phone, and try another USB port in the car.
- Phone connects but no apps appear: confirm the app supports CarPlay or Android Auto, and that CarPlay is not restricted in your iPhone’s settings.
- It disconnects while driving: replace the cable and keep the phone’s software up to date.
- Wireless will not connect: delete the old pairing on both the phone and the car, then pair again.
- Still stuck: restart the phone and then the car. If it still fails, ask a Toyota dealer to check for head-unit software updates.
Older RAV4 without CarPlay or Android Auto
If your RAV4 has an Entune 2.0 screen, you have a few options. You can stream audio over Bluetooth and use your phone’s navigation in a mount, or have a shop fit an aftermarket head unit with CarPlay and Android Auto. One guide also says some 2016 owners can swap in a factory Entune 3.0 unit. Check fitment and warranty implications with a dealer or installer before you do that.
Frequently asked questions
Can I download apps directly to my RAV4?
No. Apps run on your phone and appear on the screen through CarPlay or Android Auto, apart from the ones Toyota builds into the newer system.
Does my 2020 RAV4 have Android Auto?
Yes. Android Auto was added as standard on all 2020 RAV4 models, including hybrids, according to 9to5Google’s report on the launch. The 2020 system connects by cable.
Is the Entune app still available?
No. Toyota discontinued all Entune services on October 30, 2023. Use the Toyota app.
Why does CarPlay work on my neighbor’s RAV4 but not mine?
Their car may be a different model year or head unit, or their cable may be better. Compare the model years, try a different cable and port, and check the manual.
Do I need a subscription to use CarPlay or Android Auto?
The connection itself does not require a Toyota subscription. Some Toyota connected services, such as Drive Connect navigation on the 2026 model, do. Mobile data for the apps themselves comes from your phone plan.
Summary
Check your model year, connect your phone with a good cable, and use CarPlay or Android Auto for apps. Use the Toyota app for remote features. If your RAV4 predates 2019, use Bluetooth or an aftermarket head unit.
