Apple announced that it added a number of new features to CarPlay with iOS 26, which it introduced at the Worldwide Developers Conference WWDC 2025. With the new version, CarPlay supports many modern features on the iPhone and the in-car interface becomes more fluid.

CarPlay offers new features with iOS 26

CarPlay adopted the “Liquid Glass” design with iOS 26. This design offers a more consistent and simple interface in both light and dark modes. According to Apple, the new icons increase readability and make it easier to access information without distracting while driving.

Another important change to the user interface is that call notifications are made more compact. For example, an incoming call while navigation is open no longer covers the entire screen. While the map view remains fixed, information about the call is shown in a small part of the screen.

The messaging experience is also among the updated features. With iOS 26, CarPlay supports the quick response (tapback) feature with emoji. In addition, thanks to pinned conversations, drivers can reach their frequent contacts faster.

One of the most striking innovations integrated into CarPlay is the support of widgets and live activities. Live activities show the user important information in the corner of the screen. Apple states that this feature is designed not to prevent the user from focusing on the road.

All these innovations cover not only the classic CarPlay but also the CarPlay Ultra system. The CarPlay Ultra version, announced last month with Aston Martin, provides access to some of the vehicle’s hardware and controls directly through the CarPlay interface.

So what do you think about these features? You can share your opinions with us in the comments section below.