Last week, Apple's annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) unveiled several significant updates to iOS 26, with a special focus on enhancements for Apple CarPlay users. This year’s conference has set the stage for an exciting fall release, bringing new features and improvements that users can look forward to. If you're eager to try out the latest updates, we’ll also guide you on how to install the iOS 26 beta on your iPhone and inform you about which models are supported.
One of the most notable changes coming with iOS 26 is a complete redesign of Apple CarPlay. This new aesthetic is designed to offer a more cohesive and engaging user experience while driving. The refreshed design includes visually appealing icons that adapt seamlessly to both light and dark modes. Additionally, notifications have been compacted to ensure that important information, such as navigation directions, remains clear and accessible on your screen.
Another exciting feature of Apple CarPlay in the upcoming iOS 26 is the introduction of widgets. These widgets will allow users to quickly access vital information, including weather updates, reminders, and smart home controls, directly from their CarPlay interface. Furthermore, live activities can now be displayed on your CarPlay screen, enabling you to stay updated on events like the status of a friend's flight while en route to pick them up from the airport.
In addition to the new features, Apple revealed the Apple CarPlay Ultra, which expands the platform’s capabilities beyond the traditional in-car experience. This advanced version integrates deeply with your vehicle’s touchscreen and dashboard, providing a seamless blend of your iPhone functionalities and your car's features. As stated in a recent news release, Apple aims to deliver the ultimate in-car experience with CarPlay Ultra.
Currently, the CarPlay Ultra technology is available exclusively in new Aston Martin vehicle orders in the US and Canada. However, the announcement at WWDC confirmed that Apple is actively collaborating with additional automakers, including Hyundai, Kia, Ford, and Volvo, to broaden the availability of CarPlay Ultra in various models.
With the enhancements to Apple CarPlay and the introduction of iOS 26, Apple continues to improve the in-car experience for users. Stay tuned for the official release this fall, and if you're interested in being among the first to experience these updates, consider enrolling in the iOS 26 developer beta program.
