Apple’s CarPlay Ultra Debuts in Aston Martin Vehicles
A Fully Immersive In-Car Apple Experience
Apple has officially launched its next-generation CarPlay system, now called CarPlay Ultra, starting with Aston Martin. This enhanced experience takes over every screen in the vehicle, including the instrument cluster, for a seamless and fully immersive Apple interface.
Now Standard in New Aston Martins
CarPlay Ultra is available on all new orders of the DBX, Vantage, DB12, and Vanquish in the US and Canada. Existing vehicles equipped with Aston Martin’s next-generation infotainment system, first seen in the 2024 DB12, will receive the upgrade via a dealer-installed software update in the coming weeks.
Customizable, Brand-Integrated Design
Co-developed with Apple, Aston Martin’s CarPlay Ultra reflects the brand’s design language while offering deep personalization. Drivers can customize the instrument cluster with different themes, speedometer styles, wallpapers, and widgets for maps, media, weather, and more.
Control Everything—Your Way
Users can operate essential vehicle functions like climate control, radio, and even performance settings via touchscreen, physical buttons, or Siri. Redundant physical controls remain for critical operations like gear selection and exhaust tuning.
More Automakers on the Horizon
Apple hinted at additional CarPlay Ultra integrations with Porsche, Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis, while some brands like GM and Rivian resist giving up dashboard control.
Requirements and Global Expansion
CarPlay Ultra requires an iPhone 12 or newer with iOS 18.5+. A global rollout is planned within the next year.