The topic of iOS 26.4 gives CarPlay two new features, with another big one coming is currently the subject of lively debate — readers and analysts are keeping a close eye on developments.
This is taking place in a dynamic environment: companies’ decisions and competitors’ reactions can quickly change the picture.
iOS 26.4 was released today, and with the update CarPlay adds two new features for users, while also laying the groundwork for another big upgrade soon.
AI chatbots can do more now than ever, including by voice. But those capabilities have historically been inaccessible when driving.
iOS 26.4 changes that by unlocking support for a new category of apps: ‘voice-based conversational apps.’
CarPlay has always been restricted to only allow certain categories of apps. And in iOS 26.4, Apple has added a new category that will allow AI chatbots to live in CarPlay.
So as soon as ChatGPT, Google Gemini, and Claude apps update for CarPlay, you’ll be able to interact with those assistants while driving.
Apple has some requirements to ensure safety on the road. for example, AI apps must launch directly into voice mode, and they’ll be unable to show text or imagery so as to minimize distractions. You also won’t be able to replace Siri as your default AI assistant, at least for now.
But allowing native AI chatbot apps in CarPlay is still a big development for users who regularly interact with third-party AI assistants.
In iOS 26, Apple brought iPhone-style widgets to CarPlay for the first time. They provide glanceable information like weather conditions, your Reminders to-dos, access to HomeKit accessories, and more.
Open Settings ⇾ General ⇾ CarPlay ⇾ Widgets on your iPhone to get started. There, you can configure one or more of your widget stacks with the new Ambient Music widget.
The Ambient Music widget lets you kick off a mood playlist for Chill, Productivity, Sleep, or Wellbeing. It’s just like what’s now available for your iPhone Home Screen too in iOS 26.4.
Widgets are still very new to CarPlay, so it’s good to see Apple adding more options already.
Last year at WWDC, Apple said that iOS 26 would add support for a long-requested CarPlay feature: video.
Video in the car was expected to ship in iOS 26.0, but it never arrived. Finally though, the iOS 26.4 beta cycle revealed that the new feature is coming very soon.
The first iOS 26.4 beta had evidence of CarPlay video support, and developer Thomas Dye was even able to get the interface running and publish a video showing what to expect.
So far though, Apple has not confirmed whether video in the car is in the shipping iOS 26.4 build. As a result, it seems the feature might need a little more development time.
When video in the car does debut, it’s expected to be a slow rollout due to a requirement for automakers to formally approve the feature for its vehicles.
Do you expect to start using AI assistants in CarPlay with iOS 26.4? Let us know in the comments.
Why it matters
News like this often changes audience expectations and competitors’ plans.
When one player makes a move, others usually react — it is worth reading the event in context.
What to look out for next
The full picture will become clear in time, but the headline already shows the dynamics of the industry.
Further statements and user reactions will add to the story.