Apple unveiled its new CarPlay Ultra system and Aston Martin was the first to receive it
The new CarPlay Ultra interface covers all screens in the car. The system works with iPhone 12 and newer models running iOS 18.5 or later.
Here's What We Know
CarPlay Ultra is the next generation of Apple's proprietary in-car interface. The system is already being installed on new Aston Martin cars in the US and Canada. It will also become available for existing models with the brand's latest multimedia system via a software update in the coming weeks.
CarPlay Ultra extends the capabilities of classic CarPlay to provide the most integrated and personalised iPhone experience in the car. The new system displays information on all screens, including the dashboard, without compromising the automaker's visual style. Other brands are already preparing to join the system - Hyundai, Kia and Genesis have confirmed their participation.
Deeper integration with the car
The new visual solutions encompass speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, temperature and other parameters, providing a unified and cohesive interface. Users will be able to display both iPhone data (navigation, music) and vehicle data, such as driving assistance systems and tyre pressure, on the dashboard.
Control of functions is via the touchscreen, physical buttons or Siri voice assistant. It includes standard elements like weather and radio station switching, as well as more advanced features like audio settings or transmission performance. There's also support for iPhone widgets adapted to the size and format of car screens.
Customised design for every manufacturer
CarPlay Ultra allows car companies to create an interface in their own branded design. Apple works with carmakers' designers to develop visual themes that make the interface look as seamless as possible and emphasise the character of a particular model. Users, in turn, can customise the colours and background images, tailoring the design to their own tastes.
CarPlay Ultra complements regular CarPlay, which has become a familiar part of modern cars along with Android Auto. At the same time, Apple emphasises the high level of data protection: all the privacy principles implemented in the iPhone also apply to CarPlay Ultra.
Source: Apple
