Three game-changing new Apple CarPlay features expected with iOS 26 update
Apple CarPlay completely transforms the driving experience for iPhone owners.
CarPlay connectivity allows iPhone users to link their smartphones to vehicle infotainment systems via a wired or wireless connection. The system grants access to useful apps for navigation, music streaming, podcast streaming, and more.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto have received several updates over the years, becoming more integral parts of the modern driving experience for many drivers. Apple's upcoming CarPlay update could be an absolute game-changer because of these new features.
Apple CarPlay is debuting new features in September, says Apple blog
Popular Apple news site 9to5Mac says that Apple's iOS 26 update has plenty of new features in store for CarPlay. Everything from the appearance to available widgets, apps, and capabilities are getting upgraded.
One of the many new features is Apple's Liquid Glass design for backgrounds and wallpapers. This gives CarPlay a fresh new appearance that's more reflective of the iOS 26 update. A style upgrade is just the beginning when it comes to new CarPlay features.
Another major new feature is the introduction of widgets to standard CarPlay. Apple users will soon be able to access any widgets from installed apps via their vehicle's infotainment system. This feature makes CarPlay more capable in terms of what it can display and gives drivers the ability to quickly use more iPhone shortcuts from their vehicle's touchscreens.
Arguably the most impactful upcoming feature is AirPlay, a feature that will support in-vehicle video for standard CarPlay. This will allow drivers and occupants to enjoy videos via their car's infotainment system when the vehicle is parked. This is a game-changer, as only some brands such as Tesla hosted infotaintment video streaming features prior to iOS 26.
Why iOS 26 could be revolutionary for Apple CarPlay
One of the greatest benefits of a video streaming feature on CarPlay is an elevated charging experience for EV owners. Once rolled out, non-Tesla EV owners who use CarPlay can watch videos on their infotainment screens while their car is charging, just like Tesla owners.
This feature essentially makes infotaiment systems "smarter" regardless of how modern or antiquated their native infotainment systems are. Vehicles are getting more tech-reliant and software-centric, so Apple's decision to upgrade standard CarPlay is rational.
CarPlay Ultra takes things to a whole other level, allowing Apple's unique user interface to dominate vehicle displays via infotainment and digital instrumental cluster screens. Standard CarPlay isn't quite as advanced yet, but it's certainly evolving with every iteration and becoming a quintessential part of the modern driving experience for iPhone users.
How Apple plans to combat distracted driving with iOS 26
Incorporating video streaming into CarPlay raises some obvious safety concerns. After all, driving around with eyes glued to your favorite show or an engaging new movie could be disastrous. Thankfully, Apple designed the feature to automatically pause video playback once the connected iPhone detects motion, according to PCMag.
So, streaming video content will be reserved for drivers and occupants who are safely parked and restricted for those who would attempt to stream and drive. As infotainment systems become increasingly engaging, Apple and Android will have to keep safety in mind as both software developers introduce new features.
That said, both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are having a profound impact on the way drivers interact with their vehicles. The new CarPlay update is expected to roll out in September, according to 9to5Mac.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
22 minutes ago
- Yahoo
Thinking of Buying Tesla Stock? Here Are 2 Red Flags to Watch
Key Points Tesla's heavy reliance on Elon Musk adds significant leadership risk. Increasing competition from established automakers and Chinese EV makers is pressuring Tesla's dominance. Investors need to be comfortable with Tesla's high valuation. These 10 stocks could mint the next wave of millionaires › Tesla (NASDAQ: TSLA) has long been the front runner in the electric vehicle (EV) revolution in the U.S. Its innovation, brand strength, and rapid growth have made it a favorite among investors. Yet, despite its impressive track record, there are two big risks that investors should carefully consider before buying Tesla stock today. 1. The Elon Musk factor Elon Musk's leadership is often cited as Tesla's greatest strength -- and, paradoxically, one of its most significant vulnerabilities. Musk's vision and hands-on approach have driven Tesla's technological breakthroughs and ambitious expansion. However, this heavy reliance on a single individual introduces what investors refer to as "key man risk." If Musk were to step back from daily operations or shift his focus to other projects, Tesla might face challenges in maintaining its momentum. Though Tesla's management team has grown stronger, few executives command the same vision, drive, and public attention as Musk. Recently, Musk's increasing involvement in political activities has raised concerns about potential distractions or reputational risks for Tesla. While the company has remained operationally strong, these developments underscore the uncertainty around its future leadership continuity. While Tesla's success lies not only with Musk but also with his team, which has executed well on his vision -- no one can build a trillion-dollar company alone -- there is still no clear successor (or a viable management team) . The silver lining here is that the Tesla board has become more serious about finding one in recent months, largely due to the CEO's active involvement in politics. For investors, this means that Tesla's fortunes remain closely tied to Musk's presence and decisions -- a factor that adds a layer of risk to the investment. 2. Intensifying competition Tesla might have been an early mover in the EV industry, but its dominance is no longer guaranteed. The industry landscape is rapidly evolving, with legacy automakers and new entrants accelerating their electric ambitions. Companies like Ford and General Motors are aggressively expanding their EV lineups. For instance, Ford plans to introduce a $30,000 midsize truck by 2027. That price is significantly lower than the average for an EV, and Ford is investing $5 billion in its EV production to make it happen. GM, on the other hand, is working hard on next-generation battery technologies to improve range, charging performance, and cost. Meanwhile, Chinese manufacturers such as BYD are growing their international footprints, particularly in Europe, where Tesla experienced a nearly 27% sales declinein July 2025. BYD's battery technology, government support, and competitive pricing make it a formidable challenger. In addition, a host of EV start-ups are innovating in battery tech, autonomous driving, and new business models, further intensifying competition. While Tesla is not sitting still -- it is working on becoming the lowest-cost producer by cutting prices to grow sales volume and achieve economies of scale -- there is no guarantee that it can maintain its market share over time. In short, it's no longer the only player in town. What does this mean for investors? Tesla's story remains compelling: It's a pioneer with a powerful brand, innovative products, and potential optionality with some of its long shot bets (robotaxi, humanoid robots, etc). But the key man risk surrounding Musk and the escalating competitive landscape are real concerns that investors can't ignore. If Tesla continues to innovate more rapidly than its rivals, the company could sustain its growth trajectory. However, any leadership changes or slips in market position could hurt the business and its share price. While these two risks don't necessarily call for the sale of the stock, they do mean that investors should think carefully before buying the stock today. Tesla stock trades at a significant premium valuation to other carmakers. For perspective, Tesla has a price-to-sales (P/S) ratio of 12.9, compared to GM's 0.3. Unless you're comfortable with the risks and the high valuation, buying the stock today may not be a prudent decision. Don't miss this second chance at a potentially lucrative opportunity Ever feel like you missed the boat in buying the most successful stocks? Then you'll want to hear this. On rare occasions, our expert team of analysts issues a 'Double Down' stock recommendation for companies that they think are about to pop. If you're worried you've already missed your chance to invest, now is the best time to buy before it's too late. And the numbers speak for themselves: Nvidia: if you invested $1,000 when we doubled down in 2009, you'd have $467,985!* Apple: if you invested $1,000 when we doubled down in 2008, you'd have $44,015!* Netflix: if you invested $1,000 when we doubled down in 2004, you'd have $668,155!* Right now, we're issuing 'Double Down' alerts for three incredible companies, available when you join , and there may not be another chance like this anytime soon.*Stock Advisor returns as of August 13, 2025 Lawrence Nga has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Tesla. The Motley Fool recommends BYD Company and General Motors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Thinking of Buying Tesla Stock? Here Are 2 Red Flags to Watch was originally published by The Motley Fool
Yahoo
22 minutes ago
- Yahoo
Flames engulf semi-truck carrying Tesla cars on California freeway
A semi-truck hauling 7 Tesla EVs caught fire under unclear circumstances on the 5 Freeway in Sylmar, California on August 16.
Business Upturn
2 hours ago
- Business Upturn
AAPL LOSS ALERT: Apple Inc. Investors with Losses are Reminded of the August 19 Class Action Deadline – Contact BFA Law (NASDAQ:AAPL)
NEW YORK, Aug. 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Leading securities law firm Bleichmar Fonti & Auld LLP announces that a lawsuit has been filed against Apple Inc. (NASDAQ: AAPL) and certain of the Company's senior executives for potential violations of the federal securities laws. If you invested in Apple, you are encouraged to obtain additional information by visiting: Investors have until August 19, 2025, to ask the Court to be appointed to lead the case. The complaint asserts claims under Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 on behalf of investors who purchased Apple securities. The case is pending in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California and is captioned Tucker v. Apple Inc., et al. , No. 5:25-cv-05197. Why was Apple Sued for Securities Fraud? Apple is a multinational technology company that engages primarily in the businesses of smart-devices and artificial intelligence ('AI'). Apple's software includes a digital personal assistant called 'Siri,' which was first introduced in October 2011. The complaint alleges that Apple misrepresented Siri's advanced AI-based features as well as its ability to deliver them within the iPhone 16 product cycle. In truth, as alleged, Apple lacked a functional prototype of Siri's purported advanced AI-based features and misrepresented the time it would take to integrate such features into its devices. The Stock Declines as the Truth is Revealed On March 7, 2025, Apple announced it was indefinitely delaying several AI-based Siri features, citing development delays and pushing their release to sometime 'in the coming year.' On this news, the price of Apple stock declined $11.59 per share, or almost 5%, from $239.07 per share on March 7, 2025, to $227.48 per share on March 10, 2025, the following trading day. Then, on June 9, 2025, Apple hosted its Worldwide Developer Conference for 2025. Noticeably, Apple failed to announce any new updates regarding advanced Siri features. Analysts and media outlets described the WWDC as 'underwhelming' and 'disappointing,' with CNN stating that 'it's unlikely that any of the announcements made at Monday's event will change the perception that Apple is behind its competitors in AI.' On this news, the price of Apple stock declined $2.47 per share, or over 1%, from $203.92 on June 6, 2025, to $201.45 per share on June 9, 2025, the following trading day. Click here for more information: What Can You Do? If you invested in Apple you may have legal options and are encouraged to submit your information to the firm. All representation is on a contingency fee basis, there is no cost to you. Shareholders are not responsible for any court costs or expenses of litigation. The firm will seek court approval for any potential fees and expenses. Submit your information by visiting: Or contact:Ross Shikowitz [email protected] 212.789.3619
