Since Apple first introduced CarPlay, it has become an essential feature in modern cars. Nowadays, many people consider CarPlay a must-have when purchasing a new vehicle. This year, Apple is set to release the next-generation CarPlay, bringing unprecedented changes to the platform.
A Brand-New Design for CarPlay
Since CarPlay’s debut as “iOS in the Car” in iOS 7, its interface has seen minimal changes. The most significant update occurred with iOS 13, when Apple introduced the Dashboard interface, allowing multiple apps like Maps and Music to be displayed simultaneously using a “card” layout.
However, the next-generation CarPlay will bring a complete transformation. While the full experience hasn’t been revealed yet, Apple shared some exciting previews at WWDC 2022. The new interface still uses an app grid as its primary layout, but that’s just the beginning. The system will support a split-screen mode, allowing multiple apps to be displayed simultaneously, with a Dock at the bottom for quick access to recently used apps.
What’s even more exciting is that the new CarPlay will be able to take over the car’s entire infotainment system, not just the central display but also other screens like the instrument cluster behind the steering wheel, creating a fully integrated and seamless experience.
Deeper Integration with the Car
For CarPlay to fully take over the in-car experience, Apple has integrated it more deeply with the vehicle’s systems. By communicating in real-time with the car, the next-gen CarPlay can access a wider range of vehicle data such as climate control, fuel and battery levels, instrument cluster information, radio controls, and more. You’ll even be able to control these features directly through CarPlay.
This means that in the future, you might not need to use the car’s native interface anymore—everything can be managed through CarPlay, providing a more consistent and user-friendly experience.
Customizing Your Driving Experience
The new CarPlay not only offers advanced functionality but also allows for extensive personalization. Drivers will be able to customize instrument cluster designs, ranging from modern to traditional styles. Additionally, you can adjust the layout of the CarPlay interface, and even choose custom fonts, font sizes, and colors to match your personal preferences.
Moreover, CarPlay widgets will provide real-time information from apps like Music and Weather, making it easier to stay updated at a glance.
Which Car Brands Will Support the Next-Generation CarPlay?
Apple first introduced the next-generation CarPlay at WWDC 2022, promising to announce the first automakers before the end of 2023. As expected, Porsche and Aston Martin were the first to confirm their support for this new platform. Aston Martin has even stated that its DB12 sports car will be among the first models to feature next-generation CarPlay.
In addition to Porsche and Aston Martin, the following brands have also confirmed their support for next-gen CarPlay:
- Land Rover
- Lincoln
- Audi
- Volvo
- Honda
- Nissan
- Ford
- Jaguar
- Acura
- Polestar
- Infiniti
- Renault
However, Mercedes-Benz, originally planned as a partner for the platform, has announced that it will not adopt the next-generation CarPlay.
Launch Timeline
Apple plans to officially release the next-gen CarPlay later this year, with more details to come soon. While the current design is just a preview, this fully redesigned in-car experience is set to revolutionize the way we interact with our vehicles. We’re eagerly waiting for this new era of in-car technology.
