The next-generation of CarPlay has been rebranded to CarPlay Ultra, and it is rolling out starting today.
CarPlay Ultra is Now Official, Rolling Out Today with New Aston Martin Vehicles, Expanding to Existing Models via Software Update
Apple announced the next generation of CarPlay back in 2022 at WWDC. Since then, the company has been pretty quiet about it.
Today, Apple is breaking its silence and has officially started to roll out the next generation of CarPlay, which is now being called CarPlay Ultra, and it’s definitely a fitting name.
With CarPlay Ultra, Apple’s much-loved in-car software takes things to the next level by taking over all the displays inside your car.
This means things like climate control, your speedometer, the amount of gas your car has and so much more is now a part of CarPlay, and it is all powered by your iPhone.
You really have to check out the images below in order to appreciate the new software:
Speaking of iPhone, you need to download the latest iOS 18.5 update in order to start using CarPlay Ultra.
However, Apple says that its experience will start rolling out in the United States and Canada in Aston Martin’s core lineup. This will be available worldwide in the next year or so.
If you are planning to buy an Aston Martin vehicle in the United States or Canada, CarPlay Ultra will be a part of it. But existing Aston Martin vehicles will get a software update to enable the new CarPlay features in the United States and Canada.
Apple says that you need at least an iPhone 12 or later in order to use the new CarPlay features.
Apple hasn’t mentioned other car manufacturers for support at all, which is rather surprising given how good the new CarPlay looks. But I’m certain more companies will eventually get in line for CarPlay Ultra.
Though there are a ton of great cars out there, most of them have garbage software. It’s surprising how a company like Apple has stepped in and made a stride so big in this area. I really hope other companies start to adopt CarPlay Ultra for their vehicles rather than force trash on users in the name of ‘great’ in-car experiences.
