Apple has officially rolled out CarPlay Ultra, an evolution of its in-car smartphone interface that now takes control of every digital screen within a vehicle. Debuting in the United States with the latest range of Aston Martin performance cars, this next-generation system marks a significant shift in how drivers interact with their vehicles.
Apple CarPlay Ultra is due to arrive in Australia within the next 12 months, with future rollouts planned for a range of mainstream automotive brands including the likes of Hyundai and Kia.
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Total screen takeover
Unlike previous iterations of Apple CarPlay, which operated as an application within a vehicle’s existing infotainment system, CarPlay Ultra delivers a comprehensive redesign of all in-car displays. This includes the digital instrument cluster, digital climate controls, audio systems, and various vehicle functions – all managed through a customisable interface. While traditional physical buttons still function, the on-screen response now reflects Apple’s design language.
Customisable layouts and visual themes
Apple’s new system brings a high level of personalisation to the cabin. Collaborating closely with each automaker, CarPlay Ultra offers brand-specific design themes. In Aston Martin vehicles, for instance, drivers can choose between a digital replica of classic analogue dials or a minimalist Apple-inspired layout.
The interface supports widgets powered by the connected iPhone, allowing users to display real-time information such as navigation, weather, or media. Various wallpapers and display settings further enhance the driver’s ability to personalise the environment.
Functionality and connectivity
Operating exclusively via a wireless connection, CarPlay Ultra is designed to activate instantly upon vehicle start-up, eliminating the lag typically associated with standard wireless CarPlay. This ensures that critical functions like speed and RPM readings are available without delay.
Some proprietary features depending on the car and make – such as Aston Martin’s surround sound settings – remain outside the CarPlay Ultra interface, and access to their menus is still available through the system.
This new and immersive CarPlay Ultra experience is powered by an iPhone 12 or later (running on iOS 18.5 or newer).
Global rollout plans and supported brands
Apple CarPlay Ultra will first be available in Aston Martin vehicles ordered from 15 May 2025 in the US and Canada. A retrofit option via a software update will also be offered for current-generation Aston Martin models in the near future.
Following its initial launch, Apple CarPlay Ultra is confirmed to roll out to vehicles from Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis. Apple has previously suggested wider support from brands including Audi, Ford, Honda, Jaguar, Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Polestar, Porsche, Renault and Volvo, although further details are pending.
Conclusion
CarPlay Ultra represents Apple’s most comprehensive in-car technology update to date, offering a unified and fully integrated user experience across vehicle systems. Its phased global launch, beginning with Aston Martin and extending to volume brands in the months ahead, signals a major shift in the evolution of digital vehicle interiors.
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