iOS 26 brings upgrades to Apple CarPlay

AT ITS recent Worldwide Developers Conference, Apple announced the next iteration of its operating systems across its range of devices, the ‘iOS 26’ software upgrade bringing changes that include long-awaited enhancements of its CarPlay technology.

Drivers opting to use CarPlay as the centrepiece of their infotainment system will soon notice new functions and features that will make the system cleaner, less distracting and easier to use.

Incoming calls will occupy far less screen real estate than before, meaning you’ll no longer be distracted from navigation or other displays.

Further, the Messages app will give users the option to respond using Tapbacks (emoji’s), and to ‘pin’ frequently used conversations. Apple says the changes allow easier responses and access to message threads with friends and family that are most used.

Widgets will also now be able to be added to the CarPlay Home Screen, improving personalisation.

Apples new glassy design theme will also carry over into CarPlay, making its overall appearance much more consistent and familiar with the rest of their ecosphere. 

Additionally, these updates will all be made available to CarPlay Ultra.

Apple says CarPlay is being used more than 600 million times per day, meaning its users are clearly relying on its functionality more and more.

“Experiences are more expressive and personal, from the Lock Screen and Home Screen, to new capabilities across Phone and Messages that help users focus on the connections that matter most,” said Apple senior vice president of software engineering Craig Federighi.

“With powerful new Apple Intelligence capabilities integrated across the system, users can get things done easier than ever.

“iOS 26 shines with the gorgeous new design and meaningful improvements to the features users rely on every day, making iPhone even more helpful.”

iOS 26 is being made available to iPhone 11 and later devices, whilst Apple Intelligence support will be for iPhone 15 Pro and later devices.

Meanwhile, Android Auto users were also treated to an update recently with version 14.4.

This update, however, didn’t carry much in the way of visual or functional updates from its predecessor and was likely aimed at addressing bugs and security issues.

It is predicted that Android Auto’s next major update will include features for Gemini functionality (Google’s AI platform) and a new light theme.