Apple CarPlay in iOS 26 is simply the best version to date. Every year, your iPhone receives a major update that you probably delay as much as possible. But this time, the iOS 26 update, released this Monday by Apple, proves particularly useful for CarPlay. Great news for those who refuse to use their vehicle’s built-in systems.
A Modernized Interface and Live Activities
The first thing you’ll notice is the new Liquid Glass user interface design, which brings a breath of fresh air to the driving experience. But the real revolution lies in the integration of Live Activities on the CarPlay screen. Now, you can follow sports scores, flight routes, or other information in real-time directly on your dashboard, without having to check your phone.
Customizable Widgets
A new page now allows you to pin widgets to your CarPlay screen. Although the implementation is still limited (weather, calendar), this feature promises to become extremely powerful once developers adopt it. The customization of your driving experience is just beginning.
Smart Display Zoom and Less Intrusive Calls
The new Smart Display Zoom function automatically adjusts text size to better fit your car’s screen. For those who prefer larger text, manual settings remain available. Another notable improvement: phone calls no longer take over the entire screen but appear as a banner overlay on your current application.
Video via AirPlay (While Parked)
The most anticipated feature: video sharing on the car screen via AirPlay when the vehicle is parked. Although its deployment still depends on third-party app support, this innovation opens the door to new entertainment possibilities during breaks.
An Evolution Towards Perfection
iOS 26 brings subtle but significant improvements to CarPlay. The system, already excellent, moves a bit closer to perfection for drivers who prioritize the Apple ecosystem. It remains to be seen how developers will embrace these new capabilities to unlock their full potential.