CarPlay Gets Smarter and Sleeker With iOS 26

Apple’s CarPlay, the safer and smarter way to use your iPhone on the road, is now used over 600 million times per day—and with iOS 26, it’s getting a major upgrade.
Fresh New Look With Compact Call View
CarPlay now features a stunning new design, including a compact view for incoming calls. This lets drivers see who’s calling without blocking critical information like turn-by-turn directions.
Messaging Gets More Powerful
iOS 26 brings Tapbacks and pinned conversations to Messages in CarPlay, making it easier to keep in touch while keeping your focus on the road.
Stay Informed With Widgets and Live Activities
With support for Widgets and Live Activities, CarPlay now lets you stay updated on real-time info—like sports scores or delivery status—without leaving your driving view.
Coming to CarPlay Ultra Too
All these enhancements are also coming to CarPlay Ultra, offering a deeply integrated, unified experience that combines the best of iPhone and in-car technology across every screen.