Apple's website continues to state that the first vehicle models with next-generation CarPlay will "arrive in 2024." With less than three days remaining in the year, however, that timeframe is looking more and more unlikely.
It would not be entirely Apple's fault if the stated 2024 target is missed, given that it is ultimately up to automakers to roll out the software in vehicles, but it is still a timeframe that Apple chose to advertise on its website.
For now, next-generation CarPlay remains a concept, and it is unclear if it will ever launch.
Apple first previewed next-generation CarPlay at WWDC 2022, more than two and a half years ago. In late 2022, Aston Martin said next-generation CarPlay would be available in its DB12 sports car, but it has not shared any specific plans since then. In late November, Porsche told us it had no imminent plans to launch next-generation CarPlay.
Apple has not publicly commented on next-generation CarPlay in a long time, but it continued to make preparations behind the scenes throughout 2024. In June, it released more next-generation CarPlay videos at WWDC 2024. And in November, a few redesigned next-generation CarPlay icons appeared within iOS 18.2's code. Apple also filed to protect its next-generation CarPlay designs in the EU a few months ago.
When it first announced next-generation CarPlay, Apple promised the software would have deep integration with the instrument cluster and climate controls, support for multiple displays across the dashboard, a dedicated FM radio app, widgets, and more. The interface would be tailored to each vehicle model and automaker's brand identity.
Next-generation CarPlay is expected to be available in new vehicles only, if it ever launches. It is not an update to standard CarPlay.
Here is how Apple describes it:
This next generation of CarPlay is the ultimate iPhone experience for the car. It provides content for all the driver's screens including the instrument cluster. This ensures a cohesive design experience that is the very best of your car and your iPhone — with designs for each automaker that express your vehicle's character and brand. Vehicle functions like radio and temperature controls are handled right from CarPlay. And personalization options ranging from widgets to selecting curated gauge cluster designs make it unique to the driver.
During its initial announcement, Apple said committed automakers included Acura, Audi, Ford, Honda, Infiniti, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Polestar, Porsche, Renault, and Volvo. Aston Martin was announced later. It is unclear if that list remains accurate, however, as some automakers have since expressed hesitation about ceding the in-vehicle software experience to Apple. That doesn't guarantee that next-generation CarPlay is dead in the water, but the list of partners could end up being smaller if it ever launches.
Apple has not responded to our requests for comment about next-generation CarPlay.
