If you use an iPhone and drive regularly, you're probably familiar with CarPlay. With CarPlay Ultra, Apple aims to do much more: a system that not only mirrors your apps on the in-car screen, but also takes over the entire display in the vehicle. Speed, temperature, fuel level – everything should be displayed via an Apple interface. The goal is a uniform and consistent experience across all screens in the car. But this is precisely what's causing resistance.
Apple officially introduced CarPlay Ultra in June 2025 and originally announced plans to collaborate with 14 car brands. These included well-known manufacturers such as Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Volvo, Polestar, Renault, Ford, Nissan, and others. Now it appears that several of these brands are withdrawing or expressing skepticism. The reasons range from technical control over proprietary software solutions to economic interests.
CarPlay Ultra in detail
Unlike the previous version of CarPlay, CarPlay Ultra not only controls the central infotainment display but also the instrument cluster behind the steering wheel. All vehicle data is displayed in iOS style. Apple promises a seamless user experience, eliminating the need to adjust between the manufacturer's interface and iPhone apps. But it's precisely this depth of integration that raises concerns.
Which car manufacturers are pulling out?
According to a paid report by the Financial Times, several manufacturers are backing away from their original commitments. Mercedes-Benz had already signaled in 2022 that it would not give Apple control over the entire cockpit. Now other brands are following suit. Audi announced that its focus is on a personalized and seamless digital experience for drivers – with its own solutions, not CarPlay Ultra. However, the standard version of CarPlay will continue to be offered. Renault is working with Google and Qualcomm on its own software platform and, according to a manager, has signaled to Apple:
Do not attempt to intrude into our own systems.
Volvo and Polestar are also distancing themselves. BMW was never part of Apple's announced partner list. The company plans to integrate classic CarPlay into its new vehicle design, but not CarPlay Ultra. Jaguar Land Rover is reportedly still considering whether to introduce CarPlay Ultra. Ford and Nissan stated they have no current information on a possible implementation.
Who remains loyal to Apple?
Currently, Aston Martin is the only manufacturer to have integrated CarPlay Ultra into production vehicles. Hyundai and its brands Kia and Genesis are maintaining their partnership with Apple. Porsche is reportedly planning future integration. Apple itself remains optimistic. The company told the Financial Times that it continues to work closely with automakers. "This work takes time," a spokesperson said. The company points to the popularity of the existing CarPlay, which, according to Apple, is included in 98 percent of new cars sold in the US and is used over 600 million times a day.
CarPlay Ultra is not (yet) a given
If you're hoping for a fully integrated Apple experience in your car, you should take a closer look when buying a car. The implementation of CarPlay Ultra currently depends heavily on the brand. While some manufacturers prefer their own software solutions, others continue to rely on Apple. It remains to be seen how the market develops. One thing is clear: CarPlay Ultra has the potential to fundamentally change vehicle operation for iPhone users – provided the car manufacturers allow Apple into their systems. (Image: Apple)
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