Apple showcased its newest update for CarPlay alongside the unveiling of iOS 26 at WWDC 2025, highlighting significant feature additions and a fresh design concept branded as “Liquid Glass.”
Key enhancements include the introduction of widgets to the CarPlay interface, allowing users to seamlessly access and interact with essential apps and information directly from their car’s screen. Apple has also integrated “tapback” functionality for incoming messages, enabling drivers to quickly respond with a simple reaction rather than a typed reply. Further aligning with the familiar experience of iMessage, users will be able to pin their favorite conversations inside CarPlay for easier accessibility.
In addition, Apple revamped the incoming call interface: instead of overtaking the entire display, calls will now discreetly appear as a scaled-down notification at the bottom of the screen. This change ensures that ongoing navigation or other active applications remain fully visible even when receiving calls.
A significant visual upgrade accompanies these functional improvements. CarPlay’s design is receiving a comprehensive overhaul through Apple’s “Liquid Glass” aesthetic, promoting greater transparency and visual fluidity. These updates will prominently feature on the recently announced CarPlay Ultra, which debuted in May.
Apple is expected to share additional details about these CarPlay enhancements throughout the remainder of the WWDC event and related developer sessions.
