Apple’s upcoming iOS 26 release, anticipated next month, will introduce video playback functionality to CarPlay, a significant new feature for the platform. This capability will allow apps to display videos on the CarPlay screen, but only when the vehicle is parked.
A crucial caveat is that automakers must explicitly enable support for this video playback feature. Without their integration, the functionality will not be available, potentially leading to delayed rollouts or non-adoption by some manufacturers.
Beyond video playback, iOS 26 will bring several universal enhancements to CarPlay, including redesigned icons and appearance options, support for widgets, and updates to the Music and Messages applications. These improvements will be available in September without requiring specific approval from car manufacturers.
The more advanced “CarPlay Ultra,” initially announced in May with Aston Martin, is expected to be adopted by brands such as Kia, Hyundai, Porsche, Genesis, Ford, Nissan, Infiniti, Jaguar, and Honda. However, several prominent automakers, including BMW, Mercedes, Volvo, Polestar, Renault, and GM, are reportedly opting not to support CarPlay Ultra.
