Exciting Changes Coming to CarPlay with iOS 26 Update
Apple has announced some major updates for CarPlay with the upcoming iOS 26 release. One of the most anticipated features is the ability to stream videos via AirPlay directly to the dashboard of parked vehicles. This is a significant departure from CarPlay’s previous focus on audio-only capabilities.
While Apple did not mention this feature during its recent WWDC presentation, developers can now start enabling video streaming in CarPlay-supported apps. It remains to be seen which native Apple apps will support this functionality.
Concerns about distracted driving have been raised with the introduction of dashboard video playback. However, Apple has assured users that the feature will only work when the vehicle is stationary. The specifics of how CarPlay will determine if a vehicle is in motion have not been detailed.
The introduction of AirPlay support could open up CarPlay to previously unsupported apps like Netflix and YouTube. Apps like Zoom and VLC may also enable video playback with iOS 26. This feature has the potential to greatly expand CarPlay’s in-dash entertainment options.
Additionally, the iOS 26 update will bring a more compact call interface to CarPlay, allowing users to see caller information without sacrificing navigation visibility. Other new features include tapback support for quick emoji replies, new widgets for calendar and smart home controls, and Live Activities to track events like flights and sports.
Apple is expected to introduce AirPlay video support to both standard CarPlay and CarPlay Ultra in the near future. CarPlay Ultra, which was recently introduced in Aston Martin vehicles and will later be available in other cars, offers enhanced vehicle control integration with Apple’s infotainment interface.
