Apple‘s CarPlay will support third-party AI chatbots, such as Claude, Gemini, and ChatGPT, for the first time with the new iOS 26.4 update, the company revealed in an updated Developer Guide.
CarPlay is Apple‘s in-car interface that mirrors iPhone functionality on a vehicle’s infotainment display.
The system connects via USB or wirelessly, giving drivers hands-free access to Apple Maps, Messages, Music, and other apps through Siri voice control.
In its latest ‘CarPlay Developer Guide’, the firm revealed that “voice-based conversational apps” will be supported with the new iOS 26.4 update, by implementing a new voice control screen that will let them provide visual feedback.
Other newly-supported apps include “audio apps”, “EV charging apps”, “navigation apps (route guidance with turn-by-turn directions)”, and “public safety apps,” among several more.
The new integration will allow users to access Claude, Gemini, ChatGPT, and other voice-based AI apps and to ask questions hands-free, but they will not be able to control the vehicle or iPhone functions.
After launching an app of this kind, “the customizable voice control screen will give users vehicle-optimized chatbot experiences,” as explained by the Apple-focused website MacRumors.
Apple outlined the key requirements for voice-based conversational apps in CarPlay.
“Voice-based conversational apps must have a primary modality of voice upon launch; and after launch, appropriately respond to questions or requests and perform actions,” the company stated.
It added that these should “only hold an audio session open when voice features are actively being used” and “optimize for voice interaction in the driving environment”, not showing text or imagery in response to questions.
In order to add CarPlay’s new voice control screen support, AI companies will need to update their own apps.
Apple has allowed third-party CarPlay apps for several years, but limits which types can be offered to reduce driver distraction.
Until now, this prevented Anthropic, Google, OpenAI and other firms from creating AI assistant apps for the infotainment system, restricting drivers to Siri only for voice assistance.
Still in its Beta version, the iOS 26.4 update is set to be launched this Spring, according to MacRumors.
Models With (and Without) CarPlay
On its website, Apple listed more than 800 models across over 40 brands that have adopted CarPlay, making it one of the most widely available smartphone integration systems in new vehicles.
Some automakers include Audi, BMW, BYD, Ferrari, Ford, Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, Hyundai, Toyota, and also Lucid, since 2023.
However, CarPlay availability varies by trim level and market, with the feature offered as standard equipment on some vehicles and as an optional add-on on others.
Last October, Rivian‘s founder and CEO RJ Scaringe reaffirmed the company’s plans of not integrating CarPlay into its vehicles.
The American EV maker instead aims to develop an in-house ecosystem to provide “a richer, better experience for you as a driver or occupant of the vehicle,” as stated by Scaringe.
Last November, Bloomberg reported that Tesla is considering the option.
Sources close to the matter confirmed to the media outlet that internal tests had already started at the time.
On the other hand, General Motors has been phasing out CarPlay (and Android Auto) across its lineup, including EVs, aiming to adopt a Google-powered infotainment system instead.
CarPlay Ultra
Apart from its standard version, Apple CarPlay also has a premium one, named Ultra.
Launched last May, the new-generation infotainment system was equipped for the first time in Aston Martin‘s DBX SUV.
The South Korean brands Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis are among the next brands to start using the company’s system.
However, CarPlay Ultra has struggled to gain popularity since its debut.
Contrary to earlier public promises, Audi and Mercedes-Benz stated that they do not plan to support the premium version, as reported by the Financial Times months ago.
Audi clarified that it would not offer the software and instead would focus on offering drivers “a customized and seamless digital experience.”
The German brand — part of the Volkswagen Group — is expected to adopt the new-generation platform developed through the group’s partnership with EV maker Rivian.
Executives from the joint venture said last November that one of the first vehicles to run the software stack will be “an Audi.”
