Apple kicked off its 2025 Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) with a wave of software updates, including a major redesign of Apple CarPlay, rolling out later this year with iOS 26.
While no new hardware was announced, Apple laid out a clear software roadmap across all its devices. For those who rely on CarPlay for navigation, calls, and media, the updates promise a more seamless and less distracting experience behind the wheel, whether you’re commuting in Sydney or road-tripping in California.
Incoming calls won’t block the entire screen
One of the most practical improvements: incoming phone calls will no longer occupy the entire display. Instead, they’ll appear as a compact banner at the bottom of the screen. That means no more missing your next turn because a call interrupted your navigation.
A new look- ‘Liquid Glass’ comes to CarPlay
Apple is introducing a new design system called Liquid Glass. It brings sleeker visuals, translucent menus, and glossy icon effects to all Apple devices, including the CarPlay interface.
The update is designed to make switching between Apple devices feel more familiar and fluid, and the change extends to the in-car display. Everything will look and respond more smoothly, matching what you see on your iPhone or iPad. It also has redesigned icons suited specifically for light and dark mode while using CarPlay.
Better messaging, widgets and live info
iOS 26 also brings more messaging features to CarPlay. You’ll now be able to:
- Send Tapbacks (emoji reactions) from your car screen
- View pinned conversations
- See Live Activities like flight updates and calendar events directly from your iPhone apps
The widgets screen is now customisable too, making it easier to access useful info at a glance.
CarPlay Ultra, still exclusive, but looking sharp
The more advanced CarPlay Ultra, which takes over all in-car screens, including the instrument cluster, is still reserved for high-end models like Aston Martin. But it’ll also benefit from the new graphics introduced in iOS 26.
When can you get it?
The first beta of iOS 26 is now available for developers. A public beta is expected in July, with a full release likely in September or October 2025 for iPhone 11 and newer models. The worldwide release for the updated CarPlay could still be phased by region rather than a simultaneous release.
The bottom line
Apple is bringing small but impactful improvements to the driving experience with iOS 26. With cleaner visuals, fewer distractions, and more useful features built into CarPlay, it’s shaping up to be a meaningful update for anyone who spends time behind the wheel.
Stay tuned—we’ll keep an eye on how these features roll out in Australia and which cars will make the most of the upgrades.
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