As technology becomes more advanced, automakers are having to react quickly to keep owners happy. If someone's $300 smartphone offers better voice command than a $30,000 car, the automaker isn't going to come away looking good. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto have massively improved in-car infotainment by letting Apple and Google mirror their excellent interfaces in the car's dashboard.

These systems offer features such as Google and Apple Maps navigation, text-to-speech voice dictation, and easier access to music and phone contacts. Now, Volkswagen is taking Apple CarPlay a step further with Siri integration on its Car-Net mobile app.

Volkswagen announced a new feature, which use Apple's Siri voice command to allow owners to control their car. As long as owners have an iPhone running iOS12, they will now be able to lock and unlock their vehicle, check the estimated mileage or charge range, flash the headlights, and honk the horn using Siri.

For example, to lock the car, a Volkswagen owner would need to say "Hey Siri, lock my car." Additionally, users can customize their own shortcut phrases for Siri. Some of these shortcuts include setting the climate control or defrosters, stopping or starting for charging, or locating the car by asking "where is my car?"

For now, these features work with Siri only, so those who use Android phones are out of luck. Volkswagen says the features will also work if you wear an Apple Watch. Abdallah Shanti, EVP, Global Chief Information Officer Volkswagen Brand & Car-IT said "We are constantly looking at innovative ways to make VW Car-Net more convenient and relevant for our customers. With Siri Shortcuts, creating voice commands to use with our mobile app was a great opportunity to do just that! Integration with Siri helps our drivers keep eyes on the road and hands on the wheel."