Apple CarPlay Ultra is finally here, and if you love your iPhone, you’re going to love what it does inside your car.
After months of waiting, the next generation of CarPlay has started rolling out. Right now it’s available in new Aston Martin vehicles in the U.S. and Canada, with more brands getting ready to join in.
And this is not just a small update. CarPlay Ultra basically turns your entire dashboard into an iPhone-powered experience.
What Is CarPlay Ultra?
CarPlay Ultra is the upgraded version of the classic Apple CarPlay that many iPhone users already use every day.
But instead of just taking over the center display, CarPlay Ultra spreads across all the driver screens. That includes the instrument cluster behind the steering wheel.
Your speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, temperature gauges, and more can now blend iPhone data with real car data. It feels like your iPhone and your car are finally speaking the same language.
Maps, music, messages, and widgets from your iPhone sit right next to things like tire pressure and engine temperature.
It’s one smooth system.
Real Control From Your iPhone
With CarPlay Ultra, you’re not just running apps. You can also control core car features directly through the interface.
That includes:
- Radio
- Climate controls
- Rear view camera feeds
- Performance settings in supported vehicles
You can use the touchscreen, physical buttons, or just ask Siri. It keeps everything simple and familiar, especially if you already live in the Apple ecosystem.
And yes, privacy still works the same way it does on your iPhone. Apple says the same protections apply here too.
Designed to Match Every Car
One cool part of CarPlay Ultra is that it doesn’t look the same in every vehicle.
Apple works directly with automakers to match the brand’s style. So a luxury sports car won’t look like a family SUV. Drivers can also customize themes, colors, and wallpapers.
Right now, it’s exclusive to Aston Martin, but Apple previously confirmed that Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis Motor are working to bring it to their cars.
According to recent reports, at least one major Hyundai or Kia model could get CarPlay Ultra in the second half of this year. It’s not confirmed which one yet, but many expect something from the IONIQ lineup.
Who’s Not Joining?
Not every car brand is excited about this level of iPhone integration.
BMW, Ford Motor Company, and Rivian have publicly cooled down interest in CarPlay Ultra.
General Motors has already removed standard CarPlay from some of its newer electric vehicles, which likely means brands like Chevrolet and Cadillac won’t support Ultra either.
As for Tesla, don’t expect CarPlay Ultra there anytime soon.
Why It Matters for iPhone Users
If you use your iPhone for everything, CarPlay Ultra feels like the next logical step.
Instead of switching between your car’s system and your phone, everything works together in one unified setup. It looks cleaner, feels more modern, and keeps your driving experience consistent.
CarPlay already changed how people use their iPhone in the car. CarPlay Ultra just pushes it further.
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