Apple has officially announced a series of sweeping updates to iOS 26 during its highly anticipated WWDC 25 event, set to launch this fall. Among these updates, the enhancements to CarPlay, Apple’s advanced infotainment interface, stand out as particularly significant. With these changes, both standard CarPlay and CarPlay Ultra-compatible vehicles will benefit from a refreshed aesthetic and improved usability designed for drivers.
The list of vehicles that support CarPlay is extensive, providing a broad range of options for consumers. However, it's important to note that CarPlay Ultra is currently exclusive to Aston Martin cars. This premium feature is poised to elevate the in-car experience, offering an unmatched level of integration with Apple’s design ethos.
One of the standout features of the new CarPlay update is the incorporation of Apple’s Liquid Glass design, which will now extend to your car’s display. This design will dynamically adjust according to light and dark modes, offering a sleek and user-friendly interface. Remember, while the aesthetic updates are impressive, it's crucial to ensure that you admire them safely—only while at a red light or stop sign.
In terms of usability, CarPlay is set to improve how notifications are displayed. Incoming calls and text message alerts will no longer dominate the screen; instead, they will occupy a small portion, allowing drivers to maintain focus on essential driving directions. This thoughtful design change aims to enhance road safety while keeping drivers informed.
Another exciting advancement is the introduction of tapback support, which enables users to respond to messages quickly using emojis. This feature adds an element of convenience, ensuring that communication remains effortless without diverting attention from the road.
Perhaps the most significant update for CarPlay is the support for widgets. Users will now be able to integrate their phone’s widgets and access Live Activities, which deliver real-time notifications for various tasks, such as tracking flight durations or monitoring delivery orders. This integration not only enhances the user experience but also benefits developers, as existing widgets and Live Activities designed for the iPhone will automatically function within CarPlay without requiring additional development work.
As Apple gears up for the launch of iOS 26 this fall, the improvements to CarPlay promise to transform how users interact with their vehicles. With a focus on aesthetics, usability, and safety, these updates are set to redefine the in-car experience, making it more intuitive and connected than ever before.
