As just-auto reported earlier, Kia Motors is to introduce Android Auto and Apple CarPlay for its entire European model range over the next 18 months.

The Niro hybrid crossover, Optima Plug-in Hybrid and Sportswagon will be available with the latest smartphone-compatible operating systems when they are launched in Europe later this year. Every new model in Kia's range will feature these technologies in future, as the brand seeks to offer the latest connectivity technology to buyers at all price points.

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Michael Cole, Chief Operating Officer, Kia Motors Europe, said: "In-car connectivity is increasingly important to our buyers, who are young at heart and often seek the latest technologies on offer. It makes a great deal of sense to offer full Android and Apple compatibility so our customers can use a wide range of smartphone functions in a safe and seamless way.

The new Niro will be the first Kia to feature Android Auto (designed to work with Android phones running 5.0 Lollipop or higher). Once the phone is connected to the car via USB, both the Android and Apple systems feature voice control. Android Auto will be available on the Niro from the start of European sales in Q3 2016.

Auto connects to the user's Android device and lets them access smartphone apps and functions through the in-car infotainment system, such as voice-guided Google Maps navigation, hands-free calls and texts and voice recognition. It also lets users stream music from Google Play Music.

CarPlay, for iPhone 5 or newer, will be available to Niro buyers by the end of 2016, after the car's initial launch. It will enable full Siri voice control to control an iPhone's various functions and apps, including navigation via Apple Maps, calls and text dictation. The system also supports other audio apps, such as music streaming or audiobooks that the user may have downloaded.

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The new operating systems are built into a large 7.0- or 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system at the centre of the dashboard.

Additional Kia models will follow throughout 2016 and 2017.

The Optima Sportswagon, which goes on sale during Q4 2016, will be the first Kia model to offer both technologies from launch. Kia expects every model in its range to be available with the integrated smartphone operating systems by the end of 2017.

Kia Connected Services is a new connectivity package offering drivers a wide range of up-to-date information, including live traffic updates, speed camera locations and alerts, local point-of-interest search and weather forecasts. In Europe, the system is available to buyers free of charge for seven years after the car's purchase.