Apple has officially launched its highly anticipated next-generation CarPlay infotainment system, called CarPlay Ultra, beginning rollout first to Aston Martin vehicles in the United States and Canada. This launch arrives roughly six months later than initially planned, coming about three years after the company first announced the updated software.
CarPlay Ultra represents a major advancement beyond the standard CarPlay system. While the new platform still relies wirelessly on an iPhone, it significantly expands the scope and depth of its integration with vehicles. Not only will CarPlay Ultra manage the primary infotainment screen, it will also complement and enhance the driver’s digital dashboard, providing crucial vehicle information such as speed, fuel efficiency, trip details, and engine temperature directly via the user interface.
A key feature of the upgraded system is its increased capacity to control various vehicle settings. Apple noted that this functionality will require drivers to use an iPhone 12 or newer model running at least iOS version 18.5. Additionally, the system has been designed to seamlessly incorporate essential safety features, such as reverse camera views, by allowing these features to “punch through” the interface seamlessly when needed.
Existing compatible Aston Martin owners will see CarPlay Ultra become available soon through a software update at dealerships. Apple has also announced forthcoming compatibility with vehicle brands Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis, reflecting broader manufacturer interest in integrating the updated infotainment system across their lineups.
This release positions Apple more competitively against Google, which has successfully embedded Android Auto deeply into various vehicles for several years. Recently, Google enhanced Android Auto further by integrating Gemini, its generative AI technology, illustrating how both tech giants are increasingly pushing car infotainment systems towards more advanced and immersive experiences.
Apple attributed part of CarPlay Ultra’s delayed introduction to the detailed work required to tailor the software to align with each partner automaker’s unique visual and brand identities. According to the company, close coordination with design teams from each automaker, beginning with Aston Martin, was instrumental in developing customized themes that match each brand’s aesthetics. Furthermore, Apple has designed flexibility into CarPlay Ultra, allowing drivers to personalize colors and wallpapers to suit individual tastes.
Despite the system’s delayed rollout and ambitious functionality expansion, this launch remains notably scaled back compared to Apple’s original vision presented at their 2022 Worldwide Developers Conference. At that time, Apple showcased CarPlay Ultra alongside endorsements from 14 automakers. Notably, some previously enthusiastic partners, such as Mercedes-Benz, have since announced intentions not to adopt the new system.
