CarPlay has undergone several significant enhancements with iOS 26. After years of being overlooked, Apple has not only introduced the completely new CarPlay Ultra experience but also enhanced it with the latest software update. Additionally, the company continues to upgrade the fundamental experience, which remains prevalent among its users. With iOS 26.2, Apple will enhance CarPlay further by introducing two fresh features: the capability to unpin messages via the infotainment display and the choice to add more widgets.
Pinned messages and group conversations have been accessible for iPhone users for several iterations now. However, management was previously restricted to Apple’s primary operating systems, including iOS, iPadOS, and macOS. With iOS 26.2 for CarPlay, users can now easily unpin messages, providing them with an enhanced level of control over their devices.
In addition, Tom Warren from The Verge observed that in some CarPlay infotainment systems, iOS 26.2 allows users to add three widgets, whereas previously only two were visible simultaneously. He illustrates how users could seamlessly have a clock, the weather widget, and the Spotify widget displayed together. However, it appears that utilizing Live Activities is not feasible when three widgets are configured at the same time.
New CarPlay functionalities in iOS 26
As noted earlier, iOS 26 introduces numerous new capabilities to CarPlay. One of the most remarkable updates is the introduction of the Liquid Glass design language. This results in a glossy appearance for app icons, notifications, and the overall UI, as well as the inclusion of new wallpapers that align with iOS 26’s visual style.
Apple has also revamped notifications to lessen unnecessary distractions while driving. As a result, incoming calls no longer occupy the entire display, as the company has implemented a new compact view that presents the caller in a narrow strip at the base of the screen. iOS 26 is also capable of filtering unknown calls or messages so that these do not appear during driving.
Another impressive enhancement to CarPlay in iOS 26 is the combination of Live Activity and widgets. This allows users to view two widgets simultaneously—such as the music they’re currently playing alongside the weather—while Live Activities keep them informed about the status of an Uber Eats delivery, flight tracking, or the opening of the garage door. These are just a few of the features available in CarPlay with iOS 26. We will keep you updated once Apple launches iOS 26.2.
