Apple has launched a new version of its in-car system called CarPlay Ultra. This updated system is designed to take over your car’s entire screen, including the speedometer, music, maps, and even your AC controls. For iPhone users, it’s like having your phone fully built into your car.
But here’s the twist: many car companies are not happy with this. Big brands like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Volvo, and Audi are not planning to use CarPlay Ultra in their upcoming cars. And this can directly affect people who are planning to buy a car in 2025.
What is CarPlay Ultra?
CarPlay Ultra is Apple’s latest car software. It goes beyond just showing Apple Maps and music on your car’s screen. With this new version, Apple aims to control everything you see on the car’s display—even how your speed, fuel, and engine temperature are displayed.
It gives you a clean and smooth Apple-style look inside the car. But to do this, Apple needs access to a lot of your car’s features and information. And that’s where the problem starts.
Why Are Car Makers Saying No?
Many car companies are saying no to CarPlay Ultra for a few reasons:
- They don’t want to lose control of how their car’s screen looks and works
- They want to protect user data. If Apple runs the dashboard, Apple could also collect more data from the car
- They want to keep their brand identity. If every car uses Apple’s system, many cars might start to look and feel the same from the inside
In short, car companies don’t want Apple to take over their technology.
What Should Car Buyers Know?
If you’re planning to buy a new car in 2025 or later, this update might affect you. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Not all new cars will support CarPlay Ultra. Some brands will stick to their own systems
- You might still get the older version of CarPlay, which shows Apple Maps and music on the main screen, but it won’t control everything
- If you love using Apple features while driving, check if the car you want supports CarPlay Ultra or not
Is This a Big Problem?
Not really. You can still drive safely and use your phone with Bluetooth or the older CarPlay. But it’s good to know about these changes so you can make a better decision when buying a car.
If you are someone who uses Apple Maps, Siri, and Apple Music daily, you may want a car that works fully with Apple CarPlay Ultra. But if you’re happy with the car’s original system, this may not matter much to you.
Final Words
The way we use screens in cars is changing fast. Apple wants to be a big part of that change. But carmakers are being careful. For car buyers, this means one thing: always check the tech features before you buy. What’s inside the screen might matter just as much as what’s under the hood.
Raja Yadav, the content writer at My Car Wisdom, brings a unique voice and style to our blog. With a knack for storytelling and a keen eye for detail, Raja ensures that every piece of content is informative, engaging, and easy to understand. His focus is on delivering high-quality articles that cater to both novice car owners and seasoned automotive enthusiasts.
