It feels like Apple’s annual Worldwide Developers’ Conference (WWDC) was just weeks ago, but the pubic beta of Apple’s biggest operating systems has already arrived, bringing big changes to 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 beta to get early access to the newest iOS 26 features, 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: We tested iOS 26 on the iPhone 16 Pro – these 5 features make the update worthwhile
For now, the technology is only available in new Aston Martin vehicle orders in the US and Canada, but an announcement during WWDC in June confirmed that Apple is working with other carmakers for wider expansion. According to Top Gear, other carmakers may include Hyundai, Kia, Ford, and Volvo are already working to add CarPlay Ultra into their models.
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