Apple has officially unveiled iOS 26 at its annual Worldwide Developers Conference, introducing a suite of refinements across its ecosystem, including notable enhancements to CarPlay. While much of the update centres on a refreshed aesthetic and increased intelligence across core applications, Apple placed a distinct emphasis on elevating the in-car experience for millions of drivers globally.
CarPlay, which the company revealed is accessed more than 600 million times daily, has received a visual overhaul designed to enhance both form and function. Central to this is the introduction of a new “Liquid Glass” interface, aimed at delivering a more cohesive and expressive look across supported vehicles. While Apple has not disclosed detailed technical specifications, the company suggested the redesign enhances usability and provides a more intuitive experience on the road.
Among the more practical improvements is a new compact call view. This feature ensures that incoming call notifications no longer obstruct crucial navigation prompts. Drivers will now be able to identify callers without having their route guidance interrupted, marking a thoughtful evolution in interface design that prioritises safety and clarity.
Widgets also make their debut in CarPlay under iOS 26, further expanding the system’s customisation and smart home integration capabilities. These widgets appear to offer controls for connected devices, such as garage doors and lighting, while also displaying Live Activities, allowing users to monitor ongoing actions at a glance without shifting focus from the road.
Communication within CarPlay has also been refined. The updated Messages app now supports pinned conversations, allowing for quicker access to frequently contacted individuals. Additionally, the integration of Tapbacks — Apple’s system of lightweight message reactions — enables users to respond to messages with simple gestures, such as a thumbs up or down, without needing to compose full replies.
These enhancements are not limited to standard CarPlay systems. The newly introduced CarPlay Ultra, which made its debut in Aston Martin’s latest lineup, will also benefit from all iOS 26 features. The advanced version of CarPlay is expected to roll out to a broader range of vehicles, including those from Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis in the near future.
With iOS 26, Apple continues to blur the lines between mobile and automotive technology, signalling a deeper commitment to seamless, intelligent experiences both inside and outside the vehicle.
