Apple seems to be preparing a major upgrade for CarPlay, incorporating new features in iOS 27that promise to make the daily use of the system smarter, more practical and more tailored to the driver's needs. The changes are not limited to just the redesign of the interface, but extend to entertainment, navigation, voice control and overall interaction with the vehicle.
Once the new features become available, CarPlay will transform into an even more comprehensive digital control center, leveraging Apple's advances in artificial intelligence and connectivity services.
Play video when the vehicle is parked
One of the most important additions is support for video playback applications. Users will be able to watch content directly on the car's screen, only when the vehicle is stationary.
See also: Apple unifies iOS 27, macOS, and CarPlay wallpapers
Apple places special emphasis on safety, as once the car starts moving , the image is automatically paused and playback continues in audio. At the same time, iPhone applications that support AirPlay will be able to transmit content to the vehicle's screen, as long as the manufacturer has enabled the relevant support.
Siri AI: A smarter digital assistant
The next generation of Siri is expected to be a key element of the CarPlay experience. With the help of artificial intelligence capabilities, drivers will be able to have more natural conversations, request information, set reminders or perform everyday tasks without taking their eyes off the road.
Another advantage is that conversations are synced with the iPhone, allowing the user to continue a conversation or task later from their device.
Upgraded multimedia experience
Apple is also revamping the way you manage music and podcasts through CarPlay. A new mini-player is always available on the screen, displaying the content's cover art and basic playback controls.
Additionally, the “Now Playing” interface gains a progress bar, allowing the user to easily jump to any point in a song, podcast, or audiobook, without unnecessary movements.
New look and more modern environment
CarPlay's aesthetic is expected to be significantly revamped, adopting design elements that follow the new iOS philosophy. New wallpapers with wavy patterns and dozens of color options will offer greater personalization possibilities.
At the same time, larger widgets, more interactive information cards and the updated “Liquid Glass” icons are expected to make daily use more enjoyable and more functional.
See also: iOS 26.4: CarPlay support for ChatGPT, Claude and Gemini
Smarter navigation for every route
Of particular interest is the new collaboration between navigation apps and the car itself. Map apps will be able to exchange data with the vehicle to more accurately calculate available range.
In electric cars, the system will be able to automatically suggest charging stops, taking into account the route and remaining battery life. This is a feature that can significantly reduce the stress of long journeys.
Better connectivity and voice control
Apple promises improved reliability in wireless CarPlay, with more accurate GPS positioning and better detection of the vehicle's direction during navigation.
At the same time, voice control is expanding to more apps, allowing developers to integrate advanced voice commands into their services. This way, more and more functions can be performed without touching the screen.
More natural interaction with maps
Apple Maps is getting improved natural language search in CarPlay, allowing users to make everyday requests, such as asking for directions without tolls, avoiding highways, or choosing a shorter or more economical route.
See also: Adapter adds Android Auto and CarPlay to GM electric vehicles
This approach makes interaction more direct, reducing the need for complex voice commands.
What will be required for the new features?
The new features will require an iPhone with the corresponding version of iOS installed, while the artificial intelligence features will only be available on compatible devices that support Apple Intelligence, such as iPhone 15 Pro and later models. If all of the above changes are confirmed, CarPlay will take another significant step towards fully integrating the car into the Apple ecosystem, offering a safer, smarter and more personalized mobility experience.
