Apple has implemented a major update concerning CarPlay, allowing for video playback for the first time since its launch. This new capability, rolled out with iOS 26, allows apps to showcase video on the CarPlay screen, but exclusively while the vehicle is stationary. This represents a significant change in Apple’s stance after ten years of prohibiting video playback in cars.
The feature, known as “video in the car,” is emphasized on Apple’s developer site. It permits users to view videos from their iPhone directly on the CarPlay interface, as long as they are not operating the vehicle. Developers looking to incorporate this functionality into their apps are invited to utilize the resources offered through Apple’s MFi Program.
However, even with this progress, video playback support is not yet commonplace. Each car manufacturer has the authority to permit or deny AirPlay video options in their vehicles, which indicates that the application of this feature will differ among various car brands. Consequently, while the functionality is available, it remains unclear when or if video playback will become a widespread feature in cars equipped with CarPlay.
In April 2025, a third-party app managed to provide a CarPlay web browser with video playback for a short time, but this feature was later withdrawn after an App Store review. This occurrence highlights the difficulties developers encounter when navigating Apple’s regulations and the policies of automakers.
Besides the video playback feature, iOS 26 has introduced numerous enhancements to CarPlay, including redesigned icons, improved appearance options, widget support, and updates to crucial applications like Music and Messages. Nonetheless, at this time, no car manufacturers have publicly stated their intentions to support video playback in CarPlay, leaving users and developers eagerly awaiting future updates.
