Everything you need to know about the new Apple CarPlay: Updated looks and ease of use for popular smartphone mirroring technology as it doubles down on Android Auto rivalry

Have you ever been annoyed how your phone call takes over the entire screen in your car when connected to Apple CarPlay? If so, this latest software update will fix this problem for you.

At Apple’s latest WWDC software developer conference, the tech giant unveiled its latest suite of software updates for its line-up of devices. All the naming conventions are now harmonised and end with 26.

Across the board, all Apple devices get a new look with their respective software updates. They pick up the so-called ‘Liquid Glass’ design motif that combines shimmery app icons and translucent user interface elements.

With iOS 26, specifically, a range of new features have been added to Apple CarPlay.

There’s now a new compact view for incoming phone calls that allows you to still see other information on the screen, such as navigation details. It previously took up the entire screen.

The Message app has been updated allowing you to now respond to messages with standard ‘tapbacks’ like a heart, thumbs up or exclamation marks. Pinned conversations can now also be viewed.

On the dashboard screen it can now show live activities. For example, it allows you to keep track of things like a flight’s arrival or departure time at a glance.

Apple CarPlay iOS 26 update

Lastly, the normal version of Apple CarPlay now has a customisable widget screen. This allows you to see things like your calendar schedule and HomeKit accessories, among others.

This latter addition was previously reserved for Apple CarPlay Ultra, a more comprehensive whole-vehicle software solution which for now has only launched in certain Aston Martin vehicles in the US and Canada.

Apple notes all the aforementioned changes and additions with regular CarPlay will also be coming to CarPlay Ultra.

Apple CarPlay iOS 26 update

The first iOS 26 developer beta is now available, and a public beta version will follow in July.

The proper iOS 26 software update will launch in Australia during spring as a free update for users with an iPhone 11 or later.