Apple's CarPlay Introduces a Fresh Design and Intelligent Widgets for Easier Driving | Carscoops

      The updates are part of iOS 26, set to release this fall.

      20 hours ago

      by Michael Gauthier

      Apple has introduced several enhancements to Maps and CarPlay at WWDC 2025.

      CarPlay showcases a sleek new design, widgets, and upgraded Messages with Tapbacks.

      Apple Maps now has the capability to recall your past locations and better adapt to your travel patterns.

      During their Worldwide Developers Conference, Apple unveiled iOS 26. Described as a "significant update that offers a stunning new design, smart experiences, and enhancements to the apps that users depend on daily," the release also features several adjustments to CarPlay.

      The tech giant stated that CarPlay is utilized over 600 million times each day, and users will benefit from a more visually appealing interface that's even more user-friendly. Although Apple didn't provide extensive details, they mentioned that CarPlay incorporates a new Liquid Glass design for a more cohesive and expressive experience.

      Additionally, there are various intelligent updates, such as a new compact view for incoming calls, which allows users to identify who is calling without obstructing upcoming turns or directions.

      Another valuable addition is the introduction of widgets. While the company shared limited details about them, they seem to include virtual buttons for connected devices like garage doors and home lights. Users will also be able to view their Live Activities at a glance.

      The latest iteration of CarPlay also includes some enhancements related to Messages, enabling users to pin conversations and reply to messages with Tapbacks, allowing them to quickly give a thumbs up or thumbs down to friends.

      These updates will also be available on CarPlay Ultra, which has recently been introduced in Aston Martin vehicles and will soon expand to other brands such as Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis.

      In addition to the CarPlay updates, Apple has rolled out some modifications to Maps, including an encrypted Visited Places section that retains a history of locations you've visited. The company also announced that iPhones can now utilize "on-device intelligence" to better grasp a user's daily route, providing preferred directions when they are heading home or to work, as well as alerting them to delays and suggesting alternative routes.