Apple CarPlay in 2025: the upcoming in-car iPhone features that we’re waiting for
Apple's coming to take over your car, with CarPlay making its way to all screens soon
CarPlay links your iPhone – even mid-range models – to your car’s infotainment display. It puts access to familiar apps and features right on your dashboard, partly replacing your car’s built-in system – which, let’s face it, probably isn’t as slick.
But at Apple’s WWDC 2022 software showcase, the brand unexpectedly stole the show with a major CarPlay refresh. The next generation of CarPlay is headed to all in-car screens, not just the main infotainment panel. In theory that means Apple-styled speedometers, dials, and widgets, with the firm pegging 2024 has the first time compatible cars would be on the road. Don’t expect to plug your iPhone in and drive off into the sunset with a fresh-faced set of screens today, though.
Here are all the new features coming in Apple’s updated version of CarPlay, along with when it might finally arrive.
What actually is Apple CarPlay?
CarPlay launched in 2014 as a way to mirror a toned-down version of iOS to your car’s infotainment system. Once enabled on your iPhone, connecting the device to your car (either by cable or a mix of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, as dictated by your car’s manufacturer) will see it take over the infotainment screen from the default interface.
The two biggest reasons to use CarPlay are clearer, more convenient navigation – especially if you have an older model car with out-of-date mapping information – and access to your Phone’s music library, either stored locally or streamed. It’s a safer (and legal) way to view information when behind the wheel, rather than on your smartphone.
CarPlay lets you access a small selection of apps, including Music, Messages, Phone, and Maps, to name just a few. As you’d expect, you can also take calls, reply to messages, and use Siri.
Since the software is essentially an app dialled up to eleven, you’ll need to trudge your way back through the car’s software for any vehicle settings or maintenance info. CarPlay is the most popular in-car software, beating Android Auto (the Android alternative) and standard manufacturer software. Apple claims 99% of cars in the US support CarPlay (not quite so many in the UK), and that 79% of Americans wouldn’t buy a car without it. We’re not quite sure how true this is, but we’re big fans nonetheless.
CarPlay is available on iPhone 5 and later models running iOS 7.1 or later.
All the new CarPlay features coming soon
Apple is planning a complete redesign of CarPlay from the ground up. And we mean every bell and whistle. The biggest difference between CarPlay in its current version and the new one is how it takes over your car. Rather than working alongside the existing software in your car, the new and improved version of CarPlay replaces it entirely (the software, not your car).
In addition to the CarPlay apps, Apple’s software experience extends to all other displays in the car. This includes the dashboard, and any extended dashboards (such as the one in Mercedes cars). Apple didn’t mention if displays in the rear of the car would be supported – but these aren’t all that commonplace just yet.
Apple is revamping the dashboard with its custom-designed speedometers, dials, petrol gauges, and range indicators. CarPlay takes over everything, including all on-board sensors. You’ll also be able to put widgets on the dashboard, such as the weather, or opt for traditional driver stats. On longer dashboards, Apple will let you add additional widgets, see more in-depth trip info, and control your music. With all that extra screen real estate, you might as well take advantage of it all! All driving-specific data gets delivered by the car’s sensors, even as your iPhone runs the apps. Your phone does not store or track the vehicle-sourced information.
Most notably, since the revamped CarPlay replaces the entire car’s software, you can control the car through it. You’ll be able to adjust the climate, switch on the heated seats, play the FM radio, and more – just like you’d expect from the standard software in a car. The best part? It’s all still within CarPlay, so you don’t have to exit the interface, and Apple’s design carries forward. Apple wants to create a more familiar experience in the car with the new CarPlay, reminding you of your phone.
SharePlay is also on the way to CarPlay. Rather than sharing content via FaceTime, other iPhone users will be able to play music and other audio content directly through the car. Only the driver’s phone needs to be connected, with a prompt automatically appearing on passengers’ iPhones. This new functionality will work perfectly with Apple Music’s Collaborative Playlists introduced in iOS 17.
When to expect Apple’s new CarPlay
Apple was aiming for a launch at the end of 2023. Then it was expected it to arrive as part of the iOS 18 software update for iPhones later this year. MacRumors found that beta iPhone software referenced new CarPlay apps, such as Auto Settings, Climate, and more things it would only need if it was taking over completely.
When your car gets it is another story. Porsche and Aston Martin will be the first brands to ship the next-gen CarPlay. We’ve already got the first confirmed vehicle to get the new version of CarPlay. It’ll be the Aston Martin DB12, which goes for $245,000 up.
The tech giant already explained which automakers would support the revamped CarPlay. The list includes Ford, Lincoln, Mercedes-Benz, Infiniti, Honda, Acura, Jaguar, Land Rover, Audi, Nissan, Volvo, Porsche, Polestar, and mentioned that more would be added. It looks like Apple is focusing on higher-end vehicles for the new version of CarPlay.
Did somebody mention problems?
CarPlay’s delay isn’t the only roadbump. Remember how BMW won’t support the redesigned CarPlay? That’s because the automaker flat-out decided not to allow the software to take over the entire car’s system. Instead, the brand wants you to use its own iDrive 9 system. Fortunately, the current version of CarPlay will keep support going in the future.
That’s more than can be said for GM’s cars, as the brand kicked CarPlay support to the curb entirely. We wouldn’t be surprised if other automakers decide to kick up a fuss as well, favouring their own in-car software – however rubbish it may be.
CarPlay sets the stage for big software improvements in vehicles
When the revamped CarPlay in line with Apple’s new timeline, in-car software will look and feel very different. Car manufacturers have a reputation for less-than-great software (they are there to make the car, after all). So, CarPlay will improve that experience and plays nice with Apple’s ecosystem naturally. It’s a win for the car, and you.
With Apple taking the lead, car manufacturers will be able to take a step back from the software. Or at least continue at the current C-grade standard. Of course, cars will still need their own software for those with Android devices (we assume) or no smartphone at all. But it’s likely that automakers’ own software will get better, since they’ve now got Apple’s version to compete with.
Connor Jewiss
