Apple promised a new version of its CarPlay system back in 2022. Years went by with no updates from the Cupertino giant, and many had forgotten about the promise. But in a surprising move, Apple has now unveiled the next generation of CarPlay, called CarPlay Ultra.
In a newsroom post, Apple announced that CarPlay Ultra will offer deeper integration with a car’s systems and be closely connected to your iPhone experience. It enables drivers to use on-screen controls and monitor real-time data such as the speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, and more. Additionally, it allows management of standard car controls like the radio and climate, as well as advanced features such as performance settings.
Apple has also introduced iPhone widgets designed to seamlessly fit within your vehicle’s instrument cluster. While the idea of browsing widgets while driving might seem unusual, it offers personalized convenience for those who want it. Additionally, CarPlay Ultra will support different themes that reflect the carmaker’s design philosophy, allowing you to customize your dashboard exactly how you like.
Apple CarPlay Ultra will first launch in Aston Martin’s core models across the U.S. and Canada, with plans to expand to other models and supported infotainment systems over time. Additionally, manufacturers like Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis are actively working to bring CarPlay Ultra to their vehicles. The global rollout is expected to take place within the next 12 months.