With the arrival of iOS 26, Apple introduces one of the most notable updates to CarPlay in recent years. The refreshed design and smarter features aim to deliver a smoother and safer driving experience across more vehicles.
New visual design with Liquid Glass
The interface now adopts Apple’s new Liquid Glass aesthetic. It offers a cleaner, translucent look that adapts to light or dark environments without distraction. Icons, menus, and background layers blend more naturally with the overall dashboard display.
Widgets and live information come to standard CarPlay
Widgets are no longer reserved for high-end models. Weather, calendar events, and even smart home controls can now appear directly on the CarPlay home screen. Live Activities, like real-time flight tracking or food delivery status, are now supported without the need to open an app on the iPhone.
Smarter notifications and messaging
Incoming calls and messages appear as compact banners instead of taking over the screen. Drivers can now respond to messages using simple emoji reactions directly on the interface, keeping distractions to a minimum while driving.
Digital car key integration through Wallet
iOS 26 adds support for storing digital car keys inside Apple Wallet. Compatible vehicles can be locked, unlocked, or started with just an iPhone, streamlining access without needing a physical key.
CarPlay Ultra expands to more manufacturers
Initially exclusive to select Aston Martin models, CarPlay Ultra offers full integration with the vehicle’s systems, including climate control and instrument clusters. Apple has confirmed that more brands will soon adopt this technology, including Hyundai, Porsche, Ford, and others.
The iOS 26 public beta will be available in July, with a general release planned for this fall. As support expands, more drivers will experience the updated CarPlay across a wider range of vehicles.
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