At WWDC 2025, Apple revealed plans to allow CarPlay users to watch videos via AirPlay in their vehicles while they're not driving. The first beta of iOS 26.4 suggests the feature could be close to being available.
See also: Volvo will continue to offer CarPlay support
The initial mention of the feature appeared on Apple's CarPlay developer page, within a section specifically for automakers, indicating that CarPlay with AirPlay video is something automakers will need to implement on their own. Apparently, this is because there needs to be integration with vehicle systems to ensure that the feature can only be used when the vehicle is parked, to prevent the possibility of distraction while driving.
The first beta of iOS 26.4 released to developers today includes several new references to video playback via CarPlay, including features like input streams, notifications, and more.
See also: Which automakers will support CarPlay Ultra?
It's no surprise that Apple TV will likely support CarPlay's video feature when it launches, as there are additional reports of interaction with the TV app while using CarPlay, such as a message that will appear informing users that they will need to sign into Apple TV on their iPhone while not driving if they try to access subscription content.
While the new code in iOS 26.4 provides evidence that Apple is moving towards releasing the feature, there are no guarantees that it will eventually become available with the public release of the update, as Apple sometimes removes code that is in early betas or continues to develop it in subsequent updates before the features become available.
See also: Ford will continue to support Apple CarPlay
And with automakers needing to add support on their own, it's unclear how quickly CarPlay video will roll out across various makes and models when the feature finally launches.
