Apple is set to introduce a significant new feature to its CarPlay platform with the upcoming release of iOS 26, expected next month, bringing video playback functionality to the platform.
The new capability will allow apps to display videos on the CarPlay screen, but with a crucial caveat: it will only be available when the vehicle is parked. This limitation is likely intended to ensure safe driving practices by preventing video playback while the vehicle is in motion.
A crucial aspect of this feature is that it requires automakers to explicitly enable support for video playback. Without their integration, the functionality will not be available, potentially leading to delayed rollouts or non-adoption by some manufacturers. This means that the availability of video playback on CarPlay will vary depending on the car manufacturer’s implementation.
In addition to video playback, iOS 26 will bring several universal enhancements to CarPlay, including redesigned icons and appearance options, support for widgets, and updates to the Music and Messages applications. These improvements are expected to be available in September without requiring specific approval from car manufacturers, ensuring a more consistent user experience across different vehicles.
The more advanced “CarPlay Ultra,” initially announced in May with Aston Martin, is expected to be adopted by several prominent brands, including Kia, Hyundai, Porsche, Genesis, Ford, Nissan, Infiniti, Jaguar, and Honda. However, several notable automakers, including BMW, Mercedes, Volvo, Polestar, Renault, and GM, are reportedly opting not to support CarPlay Ultra, potentially limiting its widespread adoption.
