Apple has rolled out significant enhancements for standard CarPlay, bringing it closer to the advanced features seen in CarPlay Ultra. This update is part of the iOS 26 release, announced at the 2025 Worldwide Developers Conference. The focus is on making the driving experience more seamless and less distracting.

    One of the standout additions is the inclusion of Widgets. These handy tools, previously available only in CarPlay Ultra, now let drivers access information like weather updates, calendar events, and smart home controls directly from the CarPlay home screen. With a simple swipe to the right, users can view two widgets side by side, making it easier to stay informed without taking your eyes off the road for too long.

    Another exciting feature is Live Actions. These dynamic updates, which usually appear on your phone's lock screen, now make their way to CarPlay. Whether it's live sports scores, food delivery progress, or flight updates, these real-time notifications can be pinned to the CarPlay home screen. This means drivers can stay updated without ever needing to check their phones.

    The update also addresses some longstanding issues with calls and messages. In the past, incoming calls would dominate the screen, making it hard to focus on driving. Now, calls appear as small pop-ups with options to answer, hang up, or block, ensuring minimal disruption. Messages have also gotten an upgrade. Users can now react with default emojis instead of dictating a response, and important messages or group chats can be pinned to the top for easy access.

    Both CarPlay and CarPlay Ultra are getting a fresh new look with the iOS 26 update. Apple has introduced a design language called "Liquid Glass, " which includes new colors, rounded app icons, and updated wallpapers. There's also a new dark mode, adding to the visual appeal and reducing eye strain during night drives.

    While these updates bring standard CarPlay closer to CarPlay Ultra, it's important to note that they don't offer the same level of integration. Standard CarPlay doesn't take over other screens in the vehicle or allow control over functions like the radio or climate control. However, the new features do make the driving experience more convenient and less distracting.