Apple CarPlay Gets New Features and Design with iOS 26 Update

Apple has announced significant updates to its CarPlay feature, which is now part of the iOS 26 update. The new features aim to improve user experience, making it more intuitive and less intrusive.

The main additions include:

* Widgets: Users can now access various widgets on their dashboard, such as weather, calendars, clocks, smart home devices, and reminders. These widgets are organized into two columns, allowing users to display two widgets at once.
* Live Actions: This feature brings live updates from the lock screen, allowing users to view sports scores, food delivery progress, flight status, and more on their CarPlay dashboard without having to open their phone.

CarPlay’s new design language, dubbed “Liquid Glass,” features a fresh look with new colors, rounded edges, and slightly updated icons. A dark mode has also been introduced.

The update addresses long-standing issues with calls and messages in CarPlay. Incoming calls now appear as small pop-ups on the screen, allowing users to easily respond or hang up without losing control of the vehicle. Messages can be responded to using default reaction emojis, making it easier for users to manage their communication while driving.

These updates aim to enhance the overall user experience, providing a more streamlined and intuitive interface for CarPlay users.

Source: https://www.motortrend.com/news/apple-carplay-ios-26-update-features