Apple for this year WWDC25 revealed the next wave of improvements for CarPlaywhich will arrive together with iOS 26. The main role this time is played by a new visual style called Liquid Glass, a more compact display of calls, support for Tapback reactions in the Messages app, and the arrival of widgetů a Live Activities directly into the interface CarPlay. CarPlay with the arrival iOS 26 will feature a brand new Liquid Glass design language that unifies visual style across devices AppleIt's a futuristic, translucent, and very subtly animated look that matches the upcoming design changes to the iPhone and iPad in iOS 26. In practice, it will offer sleeker graphics, better readability, and a cleaner interface without compromising functionality while driving.
One of the most practical innovations is the new incoming call display, which is now much less intrusive. Instead of the incoming call covering the entire screen, it appears as a small banner, allowing the driver to see who is calling without losing sight of the navigation or other important information on the display.
Tapbacks and pinned conversations in Messages
CarPlay now supports Tapback reactions - quick replies to messages using symbols like 👍❤️😂 etc., which we know from the iPhone. This allows users to respond to messages with a single tap without having to type text. The update also includes support for pinned conversations, which allows quick access to favorite contacts directly from the main Messages interface in CarPlay.
Gallery
Widgetand Live Activities
V iOS 26 Apple brings to CarPlay Widgetand Live Activities, i.e. live information that is updated in real time. On the on-board display you will be able to see, for example:
- weather
- music playback status
- arrival time at destination
- active timers
- and other customizable information
Similar to the iPhone, they will widgetyv CarPlay interactive and adaptive – adapts to the current context, improving clarity and safety. Apple confirmed that all the news will arrive not only in the regular CarPlay, but also to the upcoming CarPlay Ultra – extended versions CarPlay, which fully integrates the system into all vehicle displays, including the instrument panel and air conditioning.
