Apple’s CarPlay Ultra Set to Expand Beyond Aston Martin in 2026
Apple’s CarPlay Ultra, the next-generation in-car infotainment system, is poised to extend its reach beyond Aston Martin vehicles in 2026. According to a recent report by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, at least one major new model from Hyundai or Kia is expected to integrate CarPlay Ultra in the latter half of this year.
CarPlay Ultra, unveiled at Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in 2022, represents a significant evolution from the original CarPlay system. It offers deeper integration with vehicle hardware, providing a seamless interface that spans across all digital displays within the car, including the instrument cluster and infotainment screen. This integration allows drivers to access essential information such as speed, fuel levels, and navigation directly through a unified Apple-designed interface. ([apple.com](https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2025/05/carplay-ultra-the-next-generation-of-carplay-begins-rolling-out-today/?utm_source=openai))
Key Features of CarPlay Ultra:
1. Comprehensive Dashboard Integration: CarPlay Ultra extends its interface across the entire digital dashboard, encompassing the instrument cluster. This means drivers can view maps, music, calls, and real-time vehicle data like fuel levels and tire pressure without toggling between different screens. ([carplayultra.org](https://carplayultra.org/features/?utm_source=openai))
2. Personalized Themes and Layouts: Users have the option to customize the system with various themes, colors, and wallpapers, allowing for a personalized in-car experience. Automakers can also infuse their unique design elements, blending Apple’s interface with their brand aesthetics. ([carplayultra.org](https://carplayultra.org/features/?utm_source=openai))
3. Real-Time Widgets: Enhanced widgets provide at-a-glance information such as upcoming calendar events, trip details, and weather updates, all designed to be easily readable while driving. ([carplayultra.org](https://carplayultra.org/features/?utm_source=openai))
4. Integrated Vehicle Controls: The system allows for native car controls, including advanced audio settings, performance modes, and camera views, to be accessed directly within the CarPlay Ultra interface, offering a cohesive user experience. ([carplayultra.org](https://carplayultra.org/features/?utm_source=openai))
5. Enhanced Siri Functionality: Siri is fully integrated, enabling voice commands for adjusting climate settings, playing music, or sending messages, thereby minimizing driver distraction. ([carplayultra.org](https://carplayultra.org/features/?utm_source=openai))
6. Seamless Connectivity: CarPlay Ultra connects instantly upon starting the vehicle, either wirelessly or via a USB-C cable, ensuring a smooth transition between the iPhone and the car’s system. ([carplayultra.org](https://carplayultra.org/features/?utm_source=openai))
7. Vehicle-Specific Customization: Automakers have the flexibility to tailor CarPlay Ultra’s appearance to align with their brand identity, offering unique themes that reflect luxury or sportiness. ([carplayultra.org](https://carplayultra.org/features/?utm_source=openai))
8. Enhanced Privacy and Security: Apple’s stringent privacy measures ensure that personal data, such as messages and call history, remain on the user’s iPhone unless explicitly shared, with most processing occurring on-device. ([carplayultra.org](https://carplayultra.org/features/?utm_source=openai))
The initial rollout of CarPlay Ultra began with Aston Martin vehicles in May 2025. New Aston Martin orders in the U.S. and Canada included CarPlay Ultra, with existing models featuring the brand’s next-generation infotainment system receiving the update through a software upgrade. ([apple.com](https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2025/05/carplay-ultra-the-next-generation-of-carplay-begins-rolling-out-today/?utm_source=openai))
The forthcoming integration of CarPlay Ultra into Hyundai and Kia models signifies a broader adoption of Apple’s advanced in-car technology. While specific models have not been confirmed, previous reports suggest that Hyundai’s upcoming IONIQ 3 EV, expected to debut in April 2026, may be among the first to feature CarPlay Ultra.
In addition to Hyundai and Kia, other automakers are exploring the integration of CarPlay Ultra. Notably, Tesla is reportedly working on incorporating the standard version of CarPlay into its vehicles. Unlike CarPlay Ultra, Tesla’s implementation would display CarPlay as a separate window within the existing Tesla software interface, allowing both systems to coexist. This integration is expected to support wireless connectivity, enhancing user convenience.
The expansion of CarPlay Ultra comes at a time when some automakers are reevaluating their in-car infotainment strategies. While companies like Volvo have reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Apple CarPlay, others, including Cadillac, GM, Mercedes, and BMW, are moving away from third-party in-car systems. Volvo’s approach emphasizes adapting to customers’ digital preferences by integrating systems like CarPlay Ultra alongside their native interfaces. ([t3.com](https://www.t3.com/auto/not-all-car-makers-are-ditching-carplay-whatever-your-digital-ecosystem-is-as-a-customer-you-make-your-choices-says-volvo-boss?utm_source=openai))
Apple continues to enhance CarPlay Ultra’s capabilities. Recent updates include support for video playback via AirPlay, allowing users to stream videos from their iPhones directly to the car’s display while the vehicle is parked. This feature, introduced with iOS 26, requires automaker support and may be subject to regional safety regulations. ([techradar.com](https://www.techradar.com/phones/iphone/apple-quietly-reveals-carplays-big-video-upgrade-in-ios-26-but-theres-a-catch?utm_source=openai))
Furthermore, iOS 26 brings additional upgrades to CarPlay, such as multitouch support for Maps, tapback responses in Messages, and a new compact call widget that maintains visibility of other apps during calls. The introduction of the Liquid Glass interface offers light, dark, and transparent icon styles, along with updated wallpapers, enhancing the visual appeal of CarPlay. ([tomsguide.com](https://www.tomsguide.com/vehicle-tech/carplay-in-ios-26-5-biggest-upgrades-coming-to-your-car?utm_source=openai))
As CarPlay Ultra’s adoption grows, it represents a significant shift in the automotive industry’s approach to in-car infotainment. By offering a deeply integrated, customizable, and user-friendly interface, CarPlay Ultra aims to enhance the driving experience, providing drivers with seamless access to their digital lives while on the road.
