Your Apple CarPlay is getting a big update: 3 useful features coming with iOS 26

Apple’s annual Worldwide Developers’ Conference (WWDC) happened last week, and the tech giant announced several new updates to iOS 26, including upgrades for Apple CarPlay users.

Also: How to install iOS 26 beta on your iPhone (and which models support it)

While you’ll have to enroll in the developer beta to get early access, here’s a quick overview of all the new features you can expect in Apple CarPlay by this fall.

1. New CarPlay design

Along with the redesign of iOS 26, CarPlay is following suit with a new look. The new design extends into the car for a consistent, expressive experience while you drive. This includes icons that look great in light or dark mode, and a more compact design for notifications so you can still see the directions clearly on your screen.

2. Widgets

Widgets will now be available to view in CarPlay for a quick way to get information like the weather, reminders, smart home information, and more. Plus, you can see live activities on your CarPlay screen as well, such as the status of a friend’s flight while you’re on your way to the airport to pick them up. 

3. Apple CarPlay Ultra expansion

Last month, Apple debuted Apple CarPlay Ultra, which expands CarPlay capabilities to both your car’s touchscreen and dashboard. “It builds on the capabilities of CarPlay and provides the ultimate in-car experience by deeply integrating with the vehicle to deliver the best of iPhone and the best of the car,” Apple said in a news release.

Also: Every iPhone model compatible with Apple’s iOS 26 (and which ones aren’t)

For now, the technology is only available in new Aston Martin vehicle orders in the US and Canada, but last week’s WWDC announcement confirmed that Apple is working with other carmakers for wider expansion. According to Top Gear, other carmakers like Hyundai, Kia, Ford, and Volvo are already working to add CarPlay Ultra into their models.

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