March 2, 2026, 8:33 am | Read time: 2 minutes
Apple is significantly expanding the functionality of its CarPlay infotainment software. In the future, third-party AI chatbots will be usable in the car–until now, Apple’s own voice assistant, Siri, was the standard. Currently, those who connect their iPhone to the vehicle via CarPlay can only access the most essential smartphone functions.
Operation is hands-free via voice control, with Siri playing the central role so far. Other AI systems such as ChatGPT, Claude by Anthropic, or Google’s Gemini could previously only be used directly through the iPhone.
According to reports from Apple insider and Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman, Apple will support third-party chatbots via CarPlay for the first time with iOS 26.4. Developers must adapt their applications accordingly and approve them for use in the car. Apple provides a special user interface for voice control with visual feedback. However, there are limitations: these external assistants cannot control vehicle functions. System-wide iPhone functions remain reserved for Siri.
New Opportunities, but Limitations Remain
The use of chatbots is not via voice command like “Hey Siri.” Instead, the app must first be started manually. Nevertheless, the feature is likely to be of interest to many users as it facilitates access to advanced AI tools in the car.
In parallel, iOS 26.4 is expected to bring another innovation: the direct playback of videos via CarPlay. Users could then view content from the Apple TV app or via AirPlay on the vehicle screen. However, as with many other media functions, playback is only possible when the car is stationary. Apple had already announced this feature in the summer of 2025.
Also of interest: Amazon Cars: Is Online Car Buying Coming to Europe?
Looking to the Future with Apple CarPlay Ultra
Beyond that, Apple is apparently planning major changes for CarPlay. According to “9to5Mac,” the first vehicles outside the existing partnership with Aston Martin are expected to be equipped with the new CarPlay Ultra in 2026. CarPlay Ultra is a comprehensive infotainment system that spans the entire cockpit of a vehicle and was previously only available in Aston Martin models.
For the second half of 2026, models from Kia or Hyundai are expected, possibly the Ioniq 3. With this, Apple aims to establish CarPlay not just as an extension of the smartphone but as a full-fledged in-car system.