Apple’s iOS 26 Update Brings Exciting New Features to Apple CarPlay

Apple has officially revealed its latest iPhone software update — iOS 26 — and it's packed with exciting upgrades for drivers who rely on Apple CarPlay. With a fresh new look and several practical features, iOS 26 is set to make driving with CarPlay even more enjoyable and functional when it arrives later this year.

iOS 26 and Apple CarPlay: What’s New for Drivers?

The upcoming iOS 26 update will bring several highly anticipated changes to the CarPlay experience. While the software is currently available to developers for beta testing and will soon open for public beta testing, its full rollout is expected later in the year alongside the new iPhone models.

Among the standout upgrades is Apple’s all-new Liquid Glass design, which introduces a modern and visually striking interface that extends from the iPhone directly into the CarPlay system. This sleek design features:

• Shimmery app icons for a more vibrant appearance
• Translucent interface elements that blend seamlessly with the background
• A polished and modernised overall look for the entire CarPlay experience

The updated design is expected to deliver a more premium feel that enhances both usability and aesthetics while driving.

Compact Call View: See Who’s Calling Without Disrupting Navigation

One of the most practical additions to CarPlay in iOS 26 is the introduction of a compact incoming call view. Previously, incoming calls would take over the entire screen — often blocking crucial navigation instructions or other important on-screen information.

With the compact view, drivers will now be able to see who is calling while maintaining full visibility of navigation directions, media controls, and other essential CarPlay functions — making it easier and safer to stay connected on the road.

Enhanced Messaging Features for Apple CarPlay

The Messages app is also getting a significant boost in iOS 26, bringing more of your favourite iPhone messaging features directly into CarPlay. Key new features include:

• The ability to use Tapbacks (thumbs-up, heart, exclamation mark, and more) to quickly respond to messages without distraction.
• The ability to view pinned conversations directly in the CarPlay Messages app, making it easier to access your most important chats while driving.

These updates ensure drivers can stay connected with family, friends, and colleagues more conveniently while keeping their focus on the road.

Live Activities and Widgets Arrive on the CarPlay Dashboard

Another exciting addition with iOS 26 is the arrival of Live Activities on the CarPlay Dashboard. This new feature allows drivers to keep track of real-time events such as:

• Flight departure times
• Sports scores
• Delivery updates
• Other live notifications

Additionally, customisable widgets — previously only available with CarPlay Ultra — will now become available more widely. Drivers will be able to personalise their CarPlay home screen with widgets for:

• Calendar appointments
• HomeKit smart home accessory controls
• Weather updates
• And more

This expanded functionality helps drivers access the information they care about most, all from one centralised screen.

CarPlay Ultra Users Also Benefit

While many of these features will roll out to standard CarPlay users with iOS 26, it’s worth noting that CarPlay Ultra will also receive the same upgrades, including Live Activities and the enhanced widget screen.

Whether you're using the standard CarPlay system or have access to the more advanced CarPlay Ultra, iOS 26 promises to deliver a more streamlined, customisable, and user-friendly in-car experience.

When Will iOS 26 and the New CarPlay Update Be Available?

• iOS 26 developer beta: Available now.
• Public beta testing: Expected to open next month.
• Full release: Scheduled for later this year with the launch of the next iPhone models.

As always, drivers are advised to wait for the official release to ensure maximum stability and compatibility with their vehicles.

Stay tuned for more updates as Apple prepares to launch its biggest CarPlay update yet. If you’re an Apple CarPlay user, iOS 26 promises to bring a smoother, more personalised, and much smarter driving experience right to your dashboard.

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Credit: CarExpert.com.au