Apple expands CarPlay capabilities and digital car key support

Apple has announced a major upgrade to its in-vehicle systems with the rollout of iOS 26, introducing new CarPlay features and expanding support for digital car keys across more vehicle brands.

The updates were unveiled at the company’s Worldwide Developers Conference and are set to roll out globally later this year.

CarPlay gets smarter and safer

CarPlay now features a refreshed user interface with a “Liquid Glass” design and introduces support for Live Activities and interactive widgets. These allow real-time updates—such as calendar reminders or rideshare progress—to be displayed directly on the vehicle’s screen, improving usability without driver distraction.

Message notifications have been redesigned to be less intrusive, and users can now respond with emoji “tapbacks” without leaving the CarPlay interface. Apple has also introduced accessibility improvements, including text enlargement and sound detection alerts for emergency vehicles.

Manufacturer integration expanding

CarPlay Ultra, a more deeply integrated version of the system that can control climate settings and display across instrument clusters, is currently limited to select Aston Martin models. However, Apple has confirmed it is working with additional manufacturers including Hyundai, Kia, Porsche, Ford and Renault to bring the system to future vehicles.

Apple did not confirm a timeline for when these features would be available beyond existing partners.

Digital car keys go mainstream

Apple’s digital car key platform, which allows drivers to unlock and start their vehicles using an iPhone or Apple Watch, is gaining wider adoption. Brands supporting the feature now include BMW, Hyundai, Kia, Genesis, Mercedes-Benz, Volvo, and Audi.

The system works via NFC or ultra-wideband (UWB), depending on the vehicle, and allows remote sharing of access with other users. Volvo’s EX30 is among the latest models to offer the feature via a software update.

Relevance for New Zealand market

Many of the supported brands are already active in New Zealand, and increased support for digital keys and more capable infotainment systems may influence purchasing decisions as tech-savvy buyers look for smarter vehicle integrations.

iOS 26 is expected to launch globally in the second half of 2025.