iOS 26 CarPlay Features, Widgets & Video Playback Tips 2025

CarPlay iOS 26 Features

CarPlay iOS 26 introduces powerful new features designed to enhance your driving experience with more control, smarter apps, and a sleek new interface.

Liquid Glass CarPlay iOS 26 UI

The Liquid Glass CarPlay iOS 26 design brings a stunning, modern look with smooth transitions and a glass-like interface that looks incredible on any display.

iOS 26 CarPlay widgets on Any Screen

With iOS 26 CarPlay widgets, you can access Live Activities CarPlay iOS 26, music, weather, and trip info directly on your car’s display—even on systems without dual screens.

iOS 26 CarPlay video playback with AirPlay support

iOS 26 CarPlay video playback now lets you stream videos using AirPlay video CarPlay iOS 26 while parked, providing great entertainment options.

CarPlay compact call UI iOS 26 and Messaging Enhancements

The CarPlay compact call UI iOS 26 keeps incoming call banners smaller and less intrusive. Messaging improvements to CarPlay iOS 26 include pinned messages CarPlay iOS 26 and Tapbacks CarPlay iOS 26 for faster replies.

CarPlay Ultra iOS 26 Integration

CarPlay Ultra iOS 26 allows deeper dashboard integration in compatible cars. You can control climate, seat heaters, and check iOS 26 CarPlay EV charging status directly from the interface.

Smart Display Zoom CarPlay iOS 26 and Adaptive Layouts

Smart Display Zoom CarPlay iOS 26 adapts to various screen shapes, including panoramic and vertical displays, offering a fresh and flexible iOS 26 CarPlay new interface.

How to Enable CarPlay Features iOS 26

To use the latest iOS 26 CarPlay features, you need to make sure your iPhone and vehicle meet the required setup steps. Here’s a simple guide:

Step 1: Check iOS 26 CarPlay Compatibility
Make sure your car supports iOS 26 CarPlay and that your iPhone is updated to the latest iOS 26 CarPlay update.

Step 2: Connect Your iPhone
Use a USB cable or connect wirelessly (if supported) to your vehicle. You’ll see the CarPlay setup prompt appear on your car’s screen.

Step 3: Enable CarPlay on iPhone
Go to:
Settings > General > CarPlay
Select your car and tap Enable CarPlay. Follow on-screen instructions to complete the pairing.

Step 4: Customize Your Layout
Once connected, you can add or remove apps, and rearrange icons. Set up iOS 26 CarPlay widgets, customize controls, and enable Live Activities CarPlay iOS 26 directly from your iPhone.

Step 5: Activate New Features
To enable advanced features like CarPlay Ultra iOS 26, AirPlay video CarPlay iOS 26, or CarPlay climate control iOS 26, make sure your car is listed under CarPlay Ultra compatible cars.

CarPlay Liquid Glass Design

The CarPlay Liquid Glass design in iOS 26 transforms your in-car experience with a sleek, modern look that feels smooth and premium. This new interface uses translucent layers and fluid animations to create a glass-like effect, making it easier to focus on important information without distractions.

Key Advantage: The Liquid Glass CarPlay iOS 26 design enhances visibility and usability, helping you stay connected and informed while keeping your eyes on the road.

With CarPlay UI changes iOS 26, this fresh design blends seamlessly with your car’s display, supporting features like Smart Display Zoom CarPlay iOS 26 to perfectly fit any screen shape.

Upgrade to the latest iOS 26 CarPlay update to enjoy this stunning new interface along with improved functionality and smoother controls.

iOS 26 CarPlay Widgets

iOS 26 CarPlay widgets bring real-time updates and essential controls directly to your car’s screen. These interactive widgets allow you to stay informed about navigation, music, and more without taking your eyes off the road.

Key Advantage: With Live Activities CarPlay iOS 26, your widgets update dynamically, offering seamless access to important info while driving.

Wondering how to use widgets in CarPlay iOS 26? It’s easy to customize CarPlay widgets iOS 26 to fit your preferences, making your drive smoother and more efficient.

The new widget system enhances iOS 26 CarPlay compatibility, working across many supported cars for a consistent, smarter in-car experience. Update your system to the latest iOS 26 CarPlay update to start enjoying these improvements.

CarPlay Live Activities iOS 26

CarPlay Live Activities iOS 26 brings real-time information updates right to your car’s display. Whether it’s tracking your ride, checking sports scores, or getting live weather alerts, Live Activities keep you informed without distraction.

Key Advantage: Live Activities CarPlay iOS 26 ensures you get timely updates at a glance, enhancing safety and convenience while driving.

Easily customize how Live Activities appear by adjusting your iOS 26 CarPlay widgets. This feature works seamlessly with the iOS 26 CarPlay update, improving compatibility with supported cars and apps.

CarPlay Compact Call UI iOS 26

The CarPlay compact call UI iOS 26 redesigns incoming call notifications to be smaller and less intrusive. Instead of taking up the full screen, calls appear as a compact banner, allowing you to stay focused on driving.

Key Advantage: This compact call UI keeps your view clear, reducing distractions while keeping you connected.

Along with message improvements CarPlay iOS 26, including pinned messages CarPlay iOS 26 and Tapbacks CarPlay iOS 26, the update ensures smoother, safer communication. Upgrade to the latest iOS 26 CarPlay update to experience these features and improve your in-car calling and messaging experience.

CarPlay Message Tapbacks iOS 26

Tapbacks CarPlay iOS 26 lets you quickly respond to messages with simple reactions like thumbs up or heart, right from your car’s display. This feature speeds up communication without needing to type, helping you stay focused on driving.

Key Advantage: Tapbacks CarPlay iOS 26 make messaging safer and faster by minimizing distractions while on the road.

Combined with pinned messages CarPlay iOS 26 and other message improvements CarPlay iOS 26, this update enhances your overall CarPlay messaging experience. 

Pinned Messages CarPlay iOS 26

Pinned messages CarPlay iOS 26 allows you to keep your most important conversations easily accessible on your car’s display. This feature helps you quickly find and respond to key contacts without scrolling through all messages.

Key Advantage: Pinned messages CarPlay iOS 26 improve communication efficiency and safety by letting you focus on priority chats while driving.

Along with Tapbacks CarPlay iOS 26 and other message improvements CarPlay iOS 26, pinned messages enhance the overall messaging experience in your vehicle. 

Smart Display Zoom CarPlay iOS 26

Smart Display Zoom CarPlay iOS 26 adapts the CarPlay interface to fit different screen sizes and shapes, including panoramic and vertical displays. This ensures that every element is clear and easy to use, no matter your car’s dashboard layout.

Key Advantage: Smart Display Zoom CarPlay iOS 26 offers a perfectly optimized viewing experience, improving usability and safety by reducing screen clutter.

This feature is part of the broader CarPlay UI changes iOS 26 and complements the iOS 26 CarPlay new interface for a sleek, user-friendly design.

How to Use Smart Display Zoom CarPlay iOS 26

1. Update to iOS 26: Ensure your iPhone has the latest iOS 26 CarPlay update installed.
   
2. Connect to Your Car: Plug in or connect wirelessly to your compatible CarPlay supported cars.
   
3. Access Display Settings: On your car’s infotainment screen, go to the CarPlay display or settings menu.
   
4. Enable Smart Display Zoom: Look for the Smart Display Zoom CarPlay iOS 26 option and activate it.
   
5. Adjust Zoom Level: Customize zoom levels if available to best fit your screen shape and preferences.

CarPlay Multi-Touch Navigation iOS 26

CarPlay multi-touch navigation iOS 26 enhances your driving experience by allowing smooth, intuitive gestures like pinch-to-zoom and swipe to control maps and navigation. This makes it easier to explore routes, zoom in on destinations, and switch between views quickly.

Key Advantage: Multi-touch navigation in iOS 26 CarPlay offers precise control and faster access to important map details without distracting you from driving.

This feature works seamlessly with other iOS 26 CarPlay features such as Smart Display Zoom CarPlay iOS 26 and the new CarPlay Liquid Glass design, creating a smooth, responsive, and visually appealing navigation experience.

CarPlay Swipe Gesture iOS 26

CarPlay swipe gesture iOS 26 brings intuitive touch controls to your car’s display, letting you navigate menus, switch apps, and manage notifications with simple swipes. This makes interacting with CarPlay faster and safer while driving.

Key Advantage: Swipe gestures in iOS 26 CarPlay reduce the need for precise taps, allowing quick actions without taking your focus off the road.

Combined with other iOS 26 CarPlay features like multi-touch navigation and the Liquid Glass CarPlay iOS 26 design, swipe gestures create a fluid and user-friendly interface.

CarPlay Accessibility Features iOS 26

CarPlay accessibility features iOS 26 make the in-car experience easier and safer for all users by providing enhanced voice control, larger text options, and improved screen reader support. These features ensure everyone can navigate and interact with CarPlay effortlessly.

Key Advantage: Accessibility improvements in iOS 26 CarPlay help drivers stay connected and in control, regardless of their needs or abilities.

The latest iOS 26 CarPlay update integrates these accessibility tools seamlessly with other features like CarPlay widgets iOS 26 and CarPlay compact call UI iOS 26, delivering a more inclusive driving experience.

iOS 26 CarPlay Video Streaming

iOS 26 CarPlay video streaming lets you watch videos directly on your car’s display while parked, turning your vehicle into a convenient entertainment hub. Using AirPlay video CarPlay iOS 26, you can stream movies, shows, and more with smooth playback and minimal setup.

The CarPlay iOS 26 parked video feature allows safe, legal video streaming only when your car is stationary, so you can enjoy media without distractions.

With improved iOS 26 CarPlay video playback support and compatibility across many iOS 26 CarPlay supported cars, you can easily play movies on CarPlay iOS 26 using popular apps and services.

CarPlay AirPlay iOS 26

CarPlay AirPlay iOS 26 lets you effortlessly stream audio and video content from your iPhone to your car’s display. This integration enhances your in-car entertainment by enabling smooth playback of music, podcasts, and videos through the CarPlay interface.

With AirPlay video CarPlay iOS 26, you can easily share your favorite media while parked, enjoying a seamless connection without interruptions.

The latest iOS 26 CarPlay update improves AirPlay performance and compatibility across many iOS 26 CarPlay supported cars, making it simpler than ever to stream content on the go. 

Watch Video on CarPlay iOS 26

Watching videos on CarPlay iOS 26 is now easier and safer than ever. Thanks to the new CarPlay iOS 26 parked video feature, you can stream movies, shows, and other videos directly on your car’s display—but only when your vehicle is parked, ensuring driver safety.

This feature allows you to enjoy your favorite media without distractions, turning your parked car into a mini entertainment center.

With improved iOS 26 CarPlay video playback and support for AirPlay video CarPlay iOS 26, you can easily play movies on CarPlay iOS 26 from your iPhone or compatible apps. 

CarPlay Parked Mode Video iOS 26

CarPlay parked mode video iOS 26 lets you safely watch videos on your car’s display—but only when your vehicle is parked. This feature ensures you stay entertained without compromising safety while driving.

The CarPlay iOS 26 parked video feature activates video playback only in parked mode, preventing distractions during driving.

Using AirPlay video CarPlay iOS 26, you can stream your favorite movies and shows directly to your car screen. This works seamlessly with the latest iOS 26 CarPlay update and is supported across many iOS 26 CarPlay supported cars.

CarPlay Ultra iOS 26

CarPlay Ultra iOS 26 takes in-car connectivity to the next level by deeply integrating your iPhone with your vehicle’s dashboard. It offers advanced controls for climate, EV charging, speed, and other vehicle systems—all accessible directly from CarPlay.

CarPlay Ultra iOS 26 transforms your car’s display into a smart, interactive command center, giving you real-time vehicle data and control without distractions.

With enhanced iOS 26 CarPlay dashboard integration, CarPlay Ultra supports a wide range of CarPlay Ultra compatible cars. Features like iOS 26 CarPlay EV charging and CarPlay climate control iOS 26 make managing your vehicle easier than ever.

CarPlay Instrument Cluster Widgets iOS 26

CarPlay instrument cluster widgets iOS 26 bring essential information like speed, battery status, and navigation alerts directly to your vehicle’s instrument cluster. These widgets offer quick, glanceable data without needing to shift focus from the road.

With iOS 26 CarPlay dashboard integration, instrument cluster widgets keep you informed in real time, enhancing safety and convenience during your drive.

Compatible with many CarPlay Ultra compatible cars, these widgets work alongside other iOS 26 CarPlay features like climate control and EV charging displays.

iOS 26 CarPlay Climate Control

iOS 26 CarPlay climate control adds direct access to your car’s air conditioning, heating, seat warmers, and fan settings—right from the CarPlay interface. This deep integration is part of the CarPlay Ultra experience in supported vehicles.

You can adjust climate settings without leaving the CarPlay screen, reducing distractions and making the drive more comfortable.

With full iOS 26 CarPlay dashboard integration, you can view and control real-time temperature settings, synced zones, and seat functions. This feature is available in many CarPlay Ultra compatible cars and pairs seamlessly with iOS 26 CarPlay EV charging and other advanced controls.

CarPlay EV Charging Integration iOS 26

CarPlay EV charging integration iOS 26 brings real-time electric vehicle charging data directly to your car’s dashboard through CarPlay. You can monitor battery levels, estimated range, charging status, and nearby charging stations—all without switching apps.

With iOS 26 CarPlay EV charging, you stay informed and in control of your vehicle’s power, right from the CarPlay interface.

This feature is part of the CarPlay Ultra iOS 26 experience and works with supported EVs to provide detailed insights through iOS 26 CarPlay dashboard integration. It pairs perfectly with other smart controls like CarPlay climate control iOS 26, making your EV management seamless and intuitive.

CarPlay Parking Info iOS 26

CarPlay parking info iOS 26 helps you find, view, and navigate to nearby parking spots directly from your vehicle’s display. Integrated into the updated CarPlay dashboard, it shows real-time availability, pricing, and walking distance to your destination.

CarPlay parking info iOS 26 saves time and reduces stress by giving you instant access to live parking data—without needing to switch apps or grab your phone.

This feature works seamlessly with iOS 26 CarPlay dashboard integration and is available in many CarPlay Ultra compatible cars. Combined with iOS 26 CarPlay EV charging and CarPlay climate control iOS 26, it brings a smarter, more complete driving experience.

CarPlay Live Activities Updates iOS 26

CarPlay Live Activities updates iOS 26 bring real-time, glanceable information to your car’s screen without disrupting your drive. Whether you’re following a delivery, monitoring a rideshare ETA, or tracking a live event, the info updates instantly and stays visible.

These dynamic updates keep you informed in the background—so you don’t need to open or switch apps while driving.

Live Activities are built into the iOS 26 CarPlay widgets system and adjust automatically to your screen using Smart Display Zoom CarPlay iOS 26. They work with many third-party apps that support Live Activities CarPlay iOS 26.

CarPlay Expanded Third-Party Apps iOS 26

CarPlay expanded third-party apps iOS 26 opens up more app categories for use directly on your car’s display. Apps for fueling, EV charging, parking, navigation, and food delivery now work natively within CarPlay, making everyday tasks easier while driving.

You can now access more of your favorite apps in CarPlay without needing to touch your iPhone, improving both safety and convenience.

This upgrade complements the smarter iOS 26 CarPlay apps experience, with better control through CarPlay Ultra iOS 26 and enhanced CarPlay dashboard integration. Combined with features like Live Activities CarPlay iOS 26, it offers a seamless, app-rich driving environment.

CarPlay Widget Customization iOS 26

CarPlay widget customization iOS 26 gives you full control over what appears on your car’s screen. You can now choose which widgets to display, where they show up, and how they update — all directly from your iPhone or vehicle interface.

It lets you personalize your CarPlay dashboard to match your driving needs, keeping only the most useful info front and center.

This update works hand-in-hand with iOS 26 CarPlay widgets and supports features like Live Activities CarPlay iOS 26 for real-time updates. It’s optimized for the new iOS 26 CarPlay interface and available across many iOS 26 CarPlay supported cars.

CarPlay Call Screening iOS 26

CarPlay call screening iOS 26 lets you view who’s calling and decide whether to accept, decline, or send a quick reply — all without touching your phone. The system also shows brief caller details, helping you filter unwanted or unknown calls while driving.

It reduces interruptions by giving you quick call control through your car’s display, keeping your focus on the road.

Integrated with the CarPlay compact call UI iOS 26, this feature works smoothly across supported vehicles and complements other iOS 26 CarPlay features like message improvements CarPlay iOS 26 and Tapbacks CarPlay iOS 26.

CarPlay Hold Assist iOS 26

CarPlay Hold Assist iOS 26 adds a practical feature that keeps your vehicle stationary when stopped—without needing to keep your foot on the brake. It activates automatically in supported cars when CarPlay is connected and conditions are met.

Hold Assist improves comfort and safety during traffic stops or uphill starts by keeping the car steady without driver input.

This function is part of the CarPlay Ultra iOS 26 system and works alongside other vehicle controls like CarPlay climate control iOS 26 and iOS 26 CarPlay EV charging. It’s fully integrated into the new iOS 26 CarPlay dashboard, providing better driving support in real time.

CarPlay Smart Display Zoom iOS 26

CarPlay Smart Display Zoom iOS 26 automatically adjusts the CarPlay interface to perfectly fit different screen sizes and shapes in your car. Whether your dashboard has a wide panoramic display or a taller vertical screen, this feature ensures every element is clear and easy to interact with.

It delivers a tailored, distraction-free viewing experience by optimizing content size and layout for your specific vehicle display.

Part of the broader CarPlay UI changes iOS 26, Smart Display Zoom complements the sleek Liquid Glass CarPlay iOS 26 design and dynamic iOS 26 CarPlay widgets. 

iOS 26 CarPlay Not Working? Here’s How to Fix It

If iOS 26 CarPlay is not working on your iPhone or vehicle, it could be due to software bugs, connection issues, or compatibility problems. Follow these quick steps to troubleshoot:

1. Check iOS 26 CarPlay Compatibility
Not all cars support the latest iOS 26 CarPlay update. Confirm your vehicle is on the official supported list and running compatible firmware.

2. Restart Both Devices
Restart your iPhone and your car’s infotainment system. This often fixes temporary glitches affecting CarPlay connectivity.

3. Use an Official Cable or Try Wireless Setup
If using a wired connection, make sure your Lightning cable is Apple-certified and undamaged. If your car supports wireless CarPlay, try pairing via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi instead.

4. Enable CarPlay Manually
On iPhone:
Go to Settings > General > CarPlay
Select your vehicle and make sure CarPlay is enabled.

5. Reset CarPlay Connection
Forget the car from the CarPlay settings and re-pair it.
Go to: Settings > General > CarPlay > [Your Car] > Forget This Car
Then reconnect from scratch.

6. Check App & System Permissions
Ensure Siri and Screen Time settings aren’t blocking CarPlay.
Also, confirm CarPlay is allowed while the phone is locked.

Still not working?

Make sure you’re using the latest iOS 26 CarPlay update, and check if your vehicle requires a system update. If issues continue, contact Apple Support or your car’s dealer for further assistance.

Fix CarPlay iOS 26 Issues 

If you’re facing problems with iOS 26 CarPlay, here’s how to fix common issues step-by-step:

1. Update to the Latest iOS 26 CarPlay Update
Go to Settings > General > Software Update and install the latest iOS 26 version. Many iOS 26 CarPlay issues are solved with system patches.

2. Check CarPlay Compatibility
Not all vehicles support every feature in iOS 26 CarPlay. Make sure your model is listed among iOS 26 CarPlay supported cars.

3. Use Certified Accessories
Use an Apple-certified Lightning cable for wired connections. For wireless, ensure Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are active on your iPhone.

4. Reconnect CarPlay
Forget the current connection:
Settings > General > CarPlay > [Your Car] > Forget This Car
Then plug in or reconnect wirelessly to start fresh.

5. Reset Network Settings (if needed)
Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings. This helps fix random connection problems.

6. Enable CarPlay Properly
Make sure CarPlay is turned on:
Settings > General > CarPlay > [Your Car] > Allow CarPlay

Bonus Tip:
If specific features like CarPlay widgets iOS 26, Live Activities CarPlay iOS 26, or AirPlay video CarPlay iOS 26 are not showing, confirm your vehicle supports CarPlay Ultra iOS 26 and the screen layout is set up correctly.

Still stuck? A full system reboot or contacting Apple/vehicle support may be necessary.

iOS 26 CarPlay Connection Problem – How to Fix It

If you’re facing an iOS 26 CarPlay connection problem, the issue may be due to faulty cables, outdated software, or incorrect settings. Here’s a quick fix guide:

1. Restart Your iPhone and Vehicle
Power off your iPhone and your car’s infotainment system. Restart both to refresh the CarPlay connection process.

2. Check Cable or Wireless Link
For wired setup: use a high-quality, Apple-certified Lightning cable.
For wireless: make sure Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are both enabled on your iPhone, and your car supports wireless iOS 26 CarPlay.

3. Reconnect CarPlay
Go to:
Settings > General > CarPlay > [Your Car] > Forget This Car
Then plug in again or re-pair wirelessly.

4. Enable CarPlay on iPhone
Navigate to:
Settings > General > CarPlay
Select your car and make sure Allow CarPlay While Locked is enabled.

5. Update Software
Install the latest iOS 26 CarPlay update on your iPhone. Also check if your car’s infotainment firmware needs an update from the manufacturer.

6. Check Compatibility
Ensure your vehicle is listed under iOS 26 CarPlay supported cars. Some advanced features may also require CarPlay Ultra iOS 26 support.

Still having issues?

Try a different USB port (if available), disable VPNs, or test with another iPhone to confirm if the problem is with the device or vehicle.

Update to iOS 26 for CarPlay

Updating your iPhone to iOS 26 CarPlay is essential to unlock the latest features and ensure full compatibility with newer vehicles. Follow this streamlined guide to stay up to date:

1. Check Compatibility First

Make sure your vehicle is listed among iOS 26 CarPlay supported cars—especially if you want advanced features like CarPlay Ultra iOS 26 or iOS 26 CarPlay EV charging.

2. Update Your iPhone

• Go to Settings > General > Software Update
  
• Install the available iOS 26 CarPlay update.
  
• Restart your iPhone after installation to apply all changes.

3. Reconnect CarPlay

• Plug in your iPhone with a Lightning cable or connect wirelessly.
  
• Go to Settings > General > CarPlay
  
• Your car name should appear. Tap it and confirm if you see the Allow CarPlay While Locked option.

4. Verify Feature Availability

Once connected, check that key features are active, such as:

• iOS 26 CarPlay widgets
  
• AirPlay video CarPlay iOS 26
  
• CarPlay compact call UI iOS 26
  
• Live Activities CarPlay iOS 26

iOS 26 CarPlay vs iOS 17 CarPlay – What’s New and Better?

If you’re wondering how iOS 26 CarPlay vs iOS 17 CarPlay compares, the latest version brings major upgrades in design, control, and integration. Here’s a simple breakdown:

1. Interface & Display

• iOS 26 CarPlay new interface features the stunning Liquid Glass CarPlay iOS 26 design and Smart Display Zoom CarPlay iOS 26 for ultra-wide and vertical screens.
  
• iOS 17 CarPlay used a standard layout with limited display flexibility.

Advantage: iOS 26 adapts to your car’s unique screen with cleaner visuals and sharper UI.

2. Widget System

• iOS 26 CarPlay widgets are customizable, dynamic, and support Live Activities CarPlay iOS 26.
  
• iOS 17 had basic calendar and music widgets with no customization.
  

Advantage: Personalization and real-time updates in iOS 26.

3. In-Car Integration (CarPlay Ultra)

• CarPlay Ultra iOS 26 allows control of climate, EV charging, parking, and more.
  
• iOS 17 did not support this level of vehicle integration.

Advantage: Deeper dashboard integration with iOS 26 CarPlay EV charging, climate control, and instrument cluster widgets.

4. Media & Video

• iOS 26 supports AirPlay video CarPlay iOS 26, watch videos on CarPlay iOS 26, and the CarPlay iOS 26 parked video feature.
  
• iOS 17 had no native video support.

Advantage: Entertainment on demand (while parked) in iOS 26.

5. Messaging & Calls

• iOS 26 brings CarPlay compact call UI iOS 26, Tapbacks CarPlay iOS 26, and pinned messages CarPlay iOS 26.
  
• iOS 17 offered basic calling and messaging functions.

Advantage: Smarter, cleaner communication tools.

Is iOS 26 CarPlay better than iOS 17?

Yes — it’s a massive leap forward in customization, usability, and integration. If your car supports it, update to iOS 26 for CarPlay to unlock the full potential of your driving experience.

iOS 26 CarPlay vs iOS 18 CarPlay

Comparing iOS 26 CarPlay vs iOS 18 CarPlay highlights just how far Apple has advanced its in-car experience. With iOS 26, CarPlay isn’t just a dashboard extension — it becomes a smart, deeply integrated control center for your vehicle.

1. Interface & Display Layout

• iOS 18 CarPlay: Clean and simple, but limited to standard layouts.
  
• iOS 26 CarPlay: Features a full Liquid Glass CarPlay iOS 26 design with Smart Display Zoom for curved, wide, and multi-screen dashboards.

Winner: iOS 26 — modern, adaptive UI built for next-gen cars.

2. Widgets & Live Data

• iOS 18 CarPlay: Basic widgets with limited interaction.
  
• iOS 26 CarPlay: Offers customizable widgets, Live Activities CarPlay iOS 26, and interactive layouts.

Winner: iOS 26 — real-time, personalized info at a glance.

3. Vehicle Integration (CarPlay Ultra)

• iOS 18 CarPlay: Minimal control beyond music and navigation.
  
• iOS 26 CarPlay: Full CarPlay Ultra iOS 26 support with dashboard integration for climate control, EV charging, instrument cluster widgets, and more.

Winner: iOS 26 — deeper car system control.

4. Media & Entertainment

• iOS 18 CarPlay: No video support, limited media expansion.
  
• iOS 26 CarPlay: Enables AirPlay video CarPlay iOS 26, play movies on CarPlay, and parked mode video features.
  

Winner: iOS 26 — entertainment-friendly with safety in mind.

5. Messaging & Calls

• iOS 18 CarPlay: Standard message/call interface.
  
• iOS 26 CarPlay: Adds CarPlay compact call UI, Tapbacks, pinned messages, and call screening.

Winner: iOS 26 — cleaner, smarter communication tools.

Is iOS 26 CarPlay better than iOS 18 CarPlay?

Absolutely. iOS 26 brings advanced control, custom displays, and real-time info, making it a true dashboard experience — not just a mirrored screen. If your car supports it, update to iOS 26 for CarPlay to enjoy the full upgrade.

Which iPhones Support iOS 26 CarPlay

iOS 26 CarPlay requires an iPhone capable of running iOS 26, which in turn requires an A13 Bionic chip or newer. Here’s a full list of compatible iPhones:

• iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
  
• iPhone SE (2nd & 3rd generation)
  
• iPhone 12, 12 Mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
  
• iPhone 13, 13 Mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
  
• iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
  
• iPhone 15, 15 Plus
  
• iPhone 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
  
• iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max, and 16e

Use any supported iPhone to unlock all iOS 26 CarPlay features, from the Liquid Glass interface to CarPlay Ultra integrations like EV charging and climate control.

Why It Matters

Choosing a compatible iPhone ensures you can install the official iOS 26 CarPlay update and enjoy full iOS 26 CarPlay compatibility, including advanced features such as AirPlay video CarPlay iOS 26, CarPlay widgets iOS 26, and CarPlay compact call UI iOS 26.

Pro Tip

• iPhone 11 and newer models support the update—but only iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max and all iPhone 16 variants include Apple Intelligence support, enhancing features like Live Activities.

Best Apps for iOS 26 CarPlay

The best apps for iOS 26 CarPlay take full advantage of its upgraded dashboard, widget support, and CarPlay Ultra integration. Here’s a list of top-performing apps that work seamlessly with the latest iOS 26 CarPlay features:

1. Apple Maps & Google Maps

• Live navigation, traffic alerts, and Live Activities CarPlay iOS 26 integration.
  
• Supports CarPlay instrument cluster widgets and real-time ETA.

2. Spotify & Apple Music

• Updated interface with support for custom CarPlay widgets iOS 26.
  
• Voice-controlled and optimized for the new Smart Display Zoom layout.

3. ChargePoint & PlugShare

• Essential for EV drivers using iOS 26 CarPlay EV charging.
  
• Find stations, monitor charging status, and start sessions directly from the dashboard.

4. Waze

• Crowd-sourced traffic updates with widget support.
  
• Now integrates with CarPlay compact call UI iOS 26 for better safety alerts.

5. Overcast & Audible

• Smart podcast and audiobook playback with live progress tracking.
  
• Compatible with watch videos on CarPlay iOS 26 (audio-focused content).

6. SiriusXM

• Full in-car streaming with improved UI in Liquid Glass CarPlay iOS 26 design.
  
• Customizable channels and media control.

7. Parking & Delivery Apps (e.g., SpotHero, Uber Eats)

• See live updates on your dashboard via Live Activities CarPlay iOS 26.
  
• Use with CarPlay parked mode video iOS 26 and AirPlay video support when stationary.

Pro Tip:

Access new app categories unlocked by CarPlay Ultra iOS 26, such as fueling, climate control, and EV tools. Many third-party apps are now optimized for deeper iOS 26 CarPlay dashboard integration.

Update to the latest iOS 26 CarPlay update to access all of these experiences and check the App Store for CarPlay-compatible versions.

iOS 26 CarPlay Frequently Asked Questions

What new features does iOS 26 bring to CarPlay?

iOS 26 CarPlay has a new Liquid Glass CarPlay iOS 26 design. It looks clear and glass-like. You get iOS 26 CarPlay widgets on the dashboard to see things like weather and calendar. Live Activities CarPlay iOS 26 show real-time updates like flights.

Calls now use CarPlay compact call UI iOS 26, so calls don’t cover the whole screen. Messages have Tapbacks CarPlay iOS 26 and pinned chats. Accessibility is better with bigger text and sound alerts. The iOS 26 CarPlay update makes CarPlay easier and nicer to use.

How do widgets and Live Activities work in CarPlay with iOS 26?

iOS 26 CarPlay widgets show quick info like weather or smart home controls on the CarPlay screen. Live Activities CarPlay iOS 26 show live updates like delivery status right on top of other apps.

You can customize CarPlay widgets iOS 26 from your iPhone settings. Focus mode can hide or show Live Activities. This helps your iOS 26 CarPlay setup stay useful while driving.

What is the new Liquid Glass design in CarPlay, and how does it change the interface?

The CarPlay Liquid Glass design makes the screen look clear and shiny, like glass. It matches the iPhone style for a fresh, modern look. The iOS 26 CarPlay new interface looks cleaner and easier to read. Icons shine but don’t move. This design makes it simple to use without slowing down your system.

Can I customize the CarPlay interface or add widgets with iOS 26?

Yes! You can customize CarPlay widgets iOS 26 to show weather, calendar, and smart home controls. Go to your iPhone settings under CarPlay to pick your widgets. The Liquid Glass CarPlay iOS 26 design changes as you pick widgets. More options come with CarPlay Ultra iOS 26 in newer cars.

What improvements have been made to Messages and phone calls in CarPlay?

Messages now have Tapbacks CarPlay iOS 26 to react with emojis easily. Pinned chats from your iPhone show up too. Calls use the new CarPlay compact call UI iOS 26.

Calls show in a small bar at the bottom so you can still see navigation or apps. This makes CarPlay message improvements iOS 26 and calls better.

How does the new compact view for incoming calls work in CarPlay?

Calls show as a small pop-up at the bottom with CarPlay compact call UI iOS 26. This lets you see your driving directions or apps without stopping. You can answer or reject calls from this small window easily.

Which iPhone models and vehicles are compatible with iOS 26 CarPlay and CarPlay Ultra?

iOS 26 CarPlay compatibility starts with iPhone 11 and newer. CarPlay works with over 800 cars and motorcycles. CarPlay Ultra compatible cars are newer vehicles that support deeper iOS 26 CarPlay dashboard integration.

Is video playback or streaming (like Netflix or YouTube) now possible in CarPlay with iOS 26?

Yes! You can watch videos on CarPlay iOS 26 using iOS 26 CarPlay video playback. Streaming works with AirPlay video CarPlay iOS 26 when your car is parked. For safety, video stops when the car moves. Many ask, “can I watch Netflix on CarPlay iOS 26?” — yes, but only while parked.

Are there any new accessibility features or audio switching improvements in CarPlay?

Yes. iOS 26 adds bigger text to make it easier. The CarPlay climate control iOS 26 adds better sound alerts. Sound Recognition can tell you about sirens or alarms while driving.

How do I set up or troubleshoot CarPlay with iOS 26?

Connect your iPhone 11 or newer to your car by USB or wireless. Go to Settings > General > CarPlay on your iPhone to customize CarPlay widgets iOS 26.

If you see iOS 26 CarPlay not working or iOS 26 CarPlay connection problem, restart your phone or car system. Update to the latest iOS 26 CarPlay update for fixes.

Will my current car support all the new iOS 26 CarPlay features, or do I need a new vehicle?

Most cars with CarPlay get iOS 26 CarPlay features like widgets and Live Activities. Some advanced options need newer or CarPlay Ultra compatible cars.

What is CarPlay Ultra, and how is it different from regular CarPlay?

CarPlay Ultra iOS 26 runs on all car screens like speedometers and gauges. It offers real-time data and a custom look. Regular CarPlay shows apps on the main screen only. CarPlay Ultra gives full iOS 26 CarPlay dashboard integration for premium cars.

Can I use wireless CarPlay with iOS 26, and how do I connect?

Yes! Turn on Bluetooth and Wi-Fi on your iPhone. Pair your phone with your car’s system. After that, iOS 26 CarPlay setup connects automatically when you get in.

Are there any known issues or bugs with CarPlay on iOS 26?

Some users report small iOS 26 CarPlay issues. Apple will fix them soon. The iOS 26 CarPlay update fixed many bugs, including adding Tapbacks CarPlay iOS 26 to Messages.

When will iOS 26 CarPlay be available to the public, and how do I get it?

iOS 26 was announced in mid-2025 and will be released in fall 2025. Update your iPhone 11 or newer by going to Settings > General > Software Update. The iOS 26 CarPlay update will activate new features when you connect to a compatible car.