# iOS 26: A Significant Upgrade for CarPlay Users
iOS 26 represents a considerable upgrade for CarPlay users, bringing a wealth of new features that improve the driving experience. One of the most significant enhancements is the long-anticipated introduction of widgets to CarPlay, a feature that has long been a fundamental part of Apple’s software ecosystem.
## The Emergence of Widgets in CarPlay
Widgets have established themselves as a crucial element of Apple’s ecosystem, prominently featured across the iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch. With the recent unveiling of spatial widgets in visionOS 26 for the Vision Pro, CarPlay users are finally receiving their own version of this capability. The excitement for widgets in CarPlay began in 2022, when they were first hinted at as part of the “next generation” of CarPlay, which developed into what is now referred to as CarPlay Ultra. Thankfully, Apple has opted to bring this feature to the standard CarPlay experience as well.
## Functionality of CarPlay Widgets
With iOS 26, CarPlay users can now utilize widgets akin to those on their iPhones, delivering quick access to information tailored to their preferences. Users can set up the widgets that show up in their vehicle via the iPhone’s Settings app. The new widget stacks feature enables users to stack up to five widgets, with the possibility to activate ‘Smart Rotate’ for flexible display.
### Personalization and Compatibility
Native CarPlay applications can provide their own widgets, but users are not restricted to these choices. iOS 26 permits the addition of any widget accessible on the iPhone, irrespective of whether the app is specifically categorized as a “CarPlay app.” To view the complete list of compatible apps with widgets, users can head to Settings > General > CarPlay and select their vehicle.
Depending on the size of the CarPlay display in the vehicle, users can arrange either one or two widget stacks for viewing. Some widgets feature customizable options, similar to their iPhone equivalents. For example, the Calendar’s Up Next widget allows users to either replicate their iPhone’s Calendar selection or opt for specific calendars to display, including the choice to show or hide all-day events.
## Improving Safety and Usability
The integration of widgets into CarPlay seems like a natural progression, and it’s surprising it has taken this long for them to be implemented. Nonetheless, their arrival is a positive development that emphasizes glanceability—a vital element for ensuring a safe driving experience. By incorporating widgets into CarPlay, Apple is boosting usability while guaranteeing that drivers can quickly and safely access important information.
## Final Thoughts
The incorporation of widgets in iOS 26 is a transformative development for CarPlay users, offering a more customized and efficient driving experience. With the ability to personalize and stack widgets, users can modify their CarPlay interface to align with their preferences and requirements. As the automotive realm continues to change, the adoption of such features underscores Apple’s dedication to enhancing both functionality and safety in its software solutions.
Which CarPlay widgets do you intend to use in iOS 26? Share your thoughts in the comments!
