Iphone 17 and IOS26 enhance Apple CarPlay

Apple CarPlay is changing face with the arrival of the iOS26 operating system, native on the new iPhone 17. Profoundly updated from the past, the mirroring system introduces a host of new features starting with the Liquid Glass graphics already seen on iPhone, iPad and Mac. The latest version of CarPlay will complement CarPlay Ultra, which to date is available on a small number of brands.

Already available with the iOS26 operating system release, the new CarPlay changes its face, starting with the main screen, which comes in a light or dark version, with more visible icons and new features to reduce distractions when on a call. Widgets also arrive, adding icons related to one's most used apps. Moving on to maps, there is a dedicated function capable of remembering the areas visited in the past and thanks to artificial intelligence, the system will know more about the habits of those sitting behind the wheel and will recommend alternative routes in the event of traffic on the usual routes. The list of updates includes new wallpapers, Smart Display zoom, text resizing and screenshot management. Available for the first time is the 'video in the car' function, i.e. the ability to transmit videos from your iPhone to the in-car display, but only when the car is stationary.

The new Apple CarPlay will not only be available if you own an iPhone 17. The list includes all models on which iOS26 can be installed. Which iPhones support the latest version of CarPlay? iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, iPhone 17, iPhone Air, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max, iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max, iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max, iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max, iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max, iPhone 11 and iPhone SE from the second generation.