BYD App and Software Guide: Setup, CarPlay, Android Auto and Updates (2025)

BYD’s Software Ecosystem

BYD cars use two software systems:

1. DiLink — the car’s built-in infotainment, navigation, and connected services (Android-based)
2. BYD App — the companion smartphone app for remote control, pre-conditioning, charging monitoring

Both are functional but less polished than Tesla’s ecosystem. This guide covers setup, key features, and common fixes.

Setting Up the BYD App

Step 1: Download the App

• iPhone: Search “BYD” on the App Store, or “BYD EV” — download the official BYD app
• Android: Search “BYD” on Google Play

Note on app versions by region: The BYD app varies by market. UK and EU users use the BYD Europe app. Australian users use BYD Australia’s app. Mexican users use BYD Latin America. Downloading the wrong regional app may not work with your car.

Step 2: Create an Account

1. Open the app and tap “Register”
2. Enter your email address and create a password
3. Verify your email via the confirmation link
4. Log in

Use the same email address you provided to your BYD dealer — the car’s VIN should be linked to your account automatically. If it isn’t:

Step 3: Link Your Car

If your car doesn’t appear in the app after first login:

1. Tap the ”+” icon to add a vehicle
2. Enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) — found on your V5C document or the dashboard near the windscreen
3. You may need to confirm ownership via a code sent to your email or by your dealer

Step 4: Key App Features

Apple CarPlay Setup

All current BYD models sold in the UK, Europe, and Australia support Apple CarPlay. Setup:

1. Connect via USB cable (most reliable method):

   • Use a Lightning-to-USB or USB-C to USB-A cable
   • Connect your iPhone to the USB port in the centre console or armrest
   • The CarPlay icon should appear on the BYD’s touchscreen within 10–20 seconds
   • Tap it to launch CarPlay

2. Wireless CarPlay (available on some trims):

   • Enable Bluetooth and Wi-Fi on your iPhone
   • In the BYD infotainment, go to Settings → Connectivity → Wireless CarPlay
   • Follow the pairing instructions on screen
   • First connection takes 30–60 seconds; subsequent connections are automatic

CarPlay not working?

• Ensure “Allow CarPlay While Locked” is enabled on iPhone: Settings → Screen Time → Content & Privacy Restrictions → Allowed Apps → CarPlay ✓
• Try a different USB cable — low-quality cables often fail
• Restart the infotainment (press and hold screen power button for 5–10 seconds)
• Ensure the USB port is the correct one — some BYD models have one data-capable USB and one charge-only

Android Auto Setup

1. Download Android Auto from Google Play (if not pre-installed)
2. Connect via USB cable to the data USB port
3. Android Auto should launch automatically
4. Follow the on-screen permissions prompts

Wireless Android Auto: Available on select BYD models and trims. Enable in BYD settings under Connectivity.

Android Auto not working?

• Open Android Auto app on your phone → Settings → make sure your phone is listed as connected
• Grant all requested permissions (phone, contacts, messages, location)
• Try the same cable troubleshooting as CarPlay above

DiLink Infotainment: Key Features

BYD’s DiLink system runs on Android 13 (varies by model and update). Key navigation points:

The Rotating Screen

On models with a rotating screen (Dolphin, Atto 3, Seal):

• Tap the rotate icon in the top corner of the screen to switch between landscape and portrait
• Portrait mode is useful when using the car as a mobile device (when parked)
• It rotates automatically when reversing on some trims

Climate Control

• Temperature and fan are accessible via the main screen or physical knobs (model dependent)
• Heated seats: Swipe down for the quick-access panel or find in Climate settings
• Pre-conditioning: Set via the app before getting in the car

Navigation

• BYD’s built-in navigation is functional but less capable than Google Maps
• Recommendation: Use Apple CarPlay or Android Auto with Google Maps or Waze for most navigation

Driver Assistance Controls

Access via: Settings → Driver Assistance or via the button cluster on the steering wheel:

• Adaptive Cruise Control: Stalk or button on steering wheel
• Lane Keeping Assist: Toggle in settings (can be disabled)
• Speed Warning: Settings → Driver Assistance → Speed Alert

Turning off lane keeping assist: Many owners find BYD’s lane keeping assist too interventionist. To adjust:

1. Settings → Driver Assistance → Lane Keeping Assist
2. Set to “Alert Only” (vibrates/beeps) instead of “Active” (steers)
3. Or disable entirely for journeys where it’s not wanted

Software Updates (OTA)

BYD delivers software updates over-the-air (OTA) via the car’s built-in SIM connection. Updates cover:

• Infotainment improvements
• Navigation map updates
• Bug fixes
• Occasionally: new features

How to Check for Updates

1. Go to Settings → About Vehicle → System Update
2. If an update is available, it will show here
3. Download (best done on Wi-Fi or when the SIM has strong signal)
4. Install — the car will need to be parked; installation takes 10–30 minutes

Update Tips

• Ensure the car has at least 30% battery before starting a large update
• Do not use any driving functions during the update
• The infotainment will restart once complete

If an update fails: The car should revert to the previous version. If the infotainment is stuck or unresponsive after a failed update, contact your BYD dealer.

Update Frequency

BYD’s OTA update cadence is less frequent than Tesla’s. Expect updates every 3–6 months rather than monthly. Critical security patches may come sooner.

Connecting BYD to Home Wi-Fi

Connecting the car to home Wi-Fi (if the car supports it) allows faster downloads for large updates:

1. Settings → Network → Wi-Fi
2. Select your home network
3. Enter the password

Note: Not all BYD models support external Wi-Fi. If this option isn’t visible, the car uses its built-in SIM for all connectivity.

Common Software Problems and Fixes

Battery and Charging Settings

LFP batteries: Set your charge limit to 100% — BYD’s Blade Battery (LFP chemistry) should be charged fully. This is unlike NMC batteries where 80% is recommended.