Camilla Jessen
The next generation of in-car iPhone integration has arrived.
Apple is taking its in-car ecosystem to the next level with the launch of CarPlay Ultra, a dramatic upgrade to its existing CarPlay system.
Debuting in collaboration with Aston Martin, this new version doesn’t just project apps onto a screen — it transforms the entire digital cockpit into an iPhone-powered experience.
From the driver’s display to climate control and driving modes, CarPlay Ultra gives drivers access to the full Apple interface across multiple in-car systems.
It’s not just smarter—it’s more immersive, more responsive, and deeply personalized.
More Than Just Music and Maps
With CarPlay Ultra, your iPhone becomes the brain behind your car’s infotainment.
The system allows Apple Maps to appear right in the driver’s instrument cluster, while other key vehicle data — like battery level, range, and climate settings — can be monitored and controlled using the same familiar iOS design.
Each car manufacturer will be able to customize the look and feel to match their brand identity, ensuring that the Apple-powered experience still feels native to the vehicle.
The system requires an iPhone 12 or newer and will only run on iOS 18.5 or later, according to Mobilsiden.
Apple vs. Google in the Car Tech Race
CarPlay Ultra enters a competitive space already occupied by Android Automotive, which offers a similarly deep integration but runs directly on the car’s internal systems. Apple’s approach differs: CarPlay Ultra is still powered by your iPhone, effectively streaming the full experience into the car via the phone.
But Apple’s advantage may lie in familiarity. For millions of iPhone users, CarPlay Ultra extends the ecosystem they already use every day — just now behind the wheel.
“CarPlay Ultra transforms the car into a true extension of iPhone,” an Apple representative said during the launch presentation.
The first rollout of CarPlay Ultra will begin with Aston Martin models in the US and Canada. But Apple has confirmed that Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis are next in line to adopt the platform.
There’s no official word yet on when European models will get the update.