Key Takeaways
- iOS 26 introduces a redesigned interface for both iPhone and CarPlay, called “Liquid Glass,” enhancing visual appeal with new app icons and translucent elements.
- CarPlay now allows users to respond to messages, view incoming calls as discreet pop-ups, and access Live Activities, facilitating better multitasking while driving.
- A new feature enables video playback on CarPlay when the vehicle is parked, allowing users to stream content from platforms like YouTube and Netflix directly to the car’s screen.
Radical Changes in iOS 26 and CarPlay
The latest iOS 26 update brings significant visual changes to the iPhone and CarPlay via the new “Liquid Glass” interface. This enhancement shines with glossy app icons and translucent elements, while also giving CarPlay a refreshed look, despite not being as radical as the iPhone’s redesign. Users are reminded that there’s no option to revert to the previous interface if they prefer the old design.
For those who frequently utilize the Messages app, the update includes a useful Tapback feature integrated into CarPlay. Responding to messages will now mirror the functionality on the iPhone, allowing users to express reactions such as “heart,” “thumbs up,” and “question” directly from the infotainment screen. Pinned conversations are easier to locate as well, streamlining communication efforts.
When receiving calls, users will notice a new pop-up notification that appears at the bottom of the CarPlay display, rather than taking over the entire screen. This improvement enables users to handle incoming calls without interrupting navigation apps like Apple Maps, significantly enhancing the driving experience.
The iOS 26 Live Activities feature, which allows for real-time updates like flight tracking, will also extend to CarPlay. Additionally, a new customizable widget screen makes it convenient to manage HomeKit devices and view daily calendar appointments. For those who prefer larger visuals, the Smart Display Zoom option will let users adjust icon and text sizes on the CarPlay interface, accommodating different viewing preferences.
A Game-Changing Feature
Though not heavily publicized, a notable addition to CarPlay is the ability to watch videos on the vehicle’s screen while parked. Users with iPhones running iOS 26 can utilize AirPlay to stream videos from popular platforms including YouTube, Netflix, and Hulu to their CarPlay screen. This feature opens up new opportunities for entertainment, particularly while waiting for passengers.
Final Thoughts
iOS 26 will be compatible with the iPhone SE and models from the iPhone 11 onward. To access the new features in CarPlay, users must update their devices, as CarPlay serves as an extension of iOS.
Apple continually aims to differentiate its platforms while ensuring they maintain similar functionalities. The latest CarPlay updates exemplify Apple’s strengths, especially as it faces hesitancies from automakers regarding its more expansive CarPlay Ultra. This update might encourage automakers to reconsider their stance, as Apple’s superior in-car software elevates the overall user experience.
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