**CarPlay’s Significant Upgrade in iOS 26: Enhanced Incoming Call Management**
After years of limited updates, CarPlay is poised to receive a major enhancement this fall with the launch of iOS 26. A key highlight of this upgrade is the improved management of incoming phone calls, designed to enrich the driving experience for users.
### Fresh Compact Display for Incoming Phone Calls
For those who often get phone calls while driving, the earlier CarPlay interface presented a challenge. In past versions, an incoming call would dominate the entire display, interrupting navigation and making it hard to view directions. This frequently resulted in frustrating situations, notably during crucial navigation moments.
With iOS 26, CarPlay unveils a long-anticipated remedy: a new compact display for incoming phone calls. This feature allows users to identify the caller without losing track of their navigation. The compact display appears at the bottom of the screen, enabling drivers to decide whether to answer or decline calls while still keeping an eye on vital directions.
The design of this new feature closely resembles the iPhone’s compact call display, introduced in iOS 14. Just like iPhone calls now show up as a banner at the top of the screen rather than overtaking the full display, CarPlay’s revamped call interface reduces disruption, helping users stay focused on their journey.
### Conclusion
The upgrade to CarPlay in iOS 26 signifies a meaningful enhancement in user experience, especially for those dependent on navigation while driving. The launch of the compact call display is a minor adjustment that can lead to a major difference in safety and ease, allowing drivers to handle incoming calls without jeopardizing their navigation experience.
