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Apple is further expanding CarPlay and has announced an interesting new feature: You'll soon be able to watch videos on the CarPlay screen – but only while the car is stationary. What was previously only possible via unofficial means will now become part of the official Apple ecosystem. The new feature brings CarPlay closer to entertainment systems from other manufacturers like Tesla and demonstrates that Apple is also focusing on user-friendliness and convenience in the car, without losing sight of safety.
Apple has announced that iPhone users will soon be able to stream videos to the CarPlay display via AirPlay. However, video playback will only work when the car is parked. As soon as the iPhone detects that the vehicle is moving, playback will automatically stop. This is Apple's response to the growing demand for in-car entertainment features – without the risk of distraction while driving.
AirPlay videos on CarPlay: How it should work
According to Apple, it will be possible to stream videos wirelessly directly from your iPhone to the CarPlay display – using AirPlay. This means no cables, no complicated setup; simply activate AirPlay and get started. It's important to note that the vehicle must support the feature. Not all cars with CarPlay will automatically be compatible. Apple emphasizes that it's up to the car manufacturers themselves to decide whether to integrate this feature into their vehicles.
Only allowed in parking mode
Video playback only works when the car is stationary. The iPhone detects whether the vehicle is moving and stops playback as soon as you drive off. This safety measure is intended to prevent drivers from being distracted by videos while driving. Apple thus remains true to its policy of only releasing technological innovations if they meet safety standards.
Which vehicles are compatible?
The new AirPlay feature will work with both standard CarPlay and the enhanced CarPlay Ultra. Whether older vehicles will be able to receive the feature via an update or whether it will only be available in newer models is currently unclear. Apple hasn't provided any specific details. One thing is clear, however: The decision rests with the vehicle manufacturers.
Interesting for electric car drivers
This is especially exciting if you drive an electric car. While your car is at the charging station, you can pass the time by watching a video – directly on the CarPlay screen. Other manufacturers like Tesla have been offering this type of entertainment for a while. They have an integrated Theater app that lets you stream content from Netflix, Hulu, YouTube, or Twitch. Apple is catching up with this new feature, but is relying on a solution that runs on the iPhone.
No more jailbreaks necessary
Until now, there were some unofficial ways to watch videos via CarPlay – such as jailbreaks or beta apps distributed via TestFlight. However, these methods weren't officially approved by Apple and often had technical limitations. This new feature closes this gap. You get an official, stable solution directly from Apple – without any detours.
No details yet on launch date and countries
Apple hasn't yet provided any details on when the feature will be rolled out or in which countries it will be available first. Release may also depend on the respective safety regulations in your country. Apple hasn't yet released any images or a demo of the feature. Currently, the information can only be found on Apple's developer website under the "Videos in the Car" section.
New CarPlay feature: Watch videos in a parked car
Apple is expanding CarPlay with a practical feature for everyday use—especially when the car is stationary. You'll soon be able to stream videos from your iPhone to the CarPlay screen via AirPlay while the vehicle is stationary. However, implementation is up to the car manufacturers, and it remains to be seen how quickly they integrate this feature into their models. For you as a user, this means more convenience, more entertainment—but also with a continued focus on safety. (Image: Apple)
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