Apple’s ambitious vision for the “next generation of CarPlay,” first revealed in 2022 and still prominently featured on its website with a 2024 launch date, remains elusive. As pointed out by MacRumors, the updated CarPlay hasn’t surfaced yet, and with no major announcements on the horizon, its arrival appears uncertain. The lingering question is: what’s causing the delay?
To date, the most noticeable updates to CarPlay have been modest, such as navigation directions displayed within instrument clusters in cars from brands like Polestar, Porsche, and Lincoln. Even the 2024 Lincoln Nautilus, which boasts expansive screens well-suited for Apple’s dashboard-spanning interface, has not fully embraced the new CarPlay experience. Porsche and Aston Martin had previously announced they would be among the first manufacturers to integrate the revamped software, but both recently declined to provide timelines when asked by Wired.
Apple had initially stated that numerous automakers would adopt its new CarPlay, but support from manufacturers has since been lukewarm. Some have outright distanced themselves from the project. For instance, Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius remarked in an April interview with The Verge’s Nilay Patel that Apple would not have control over all screens in its vehicles, signaling a clear boundary for integration.
Other major players, such as General Motors (GM) and Rivian, have also pushed back against Apple’s CarPlay update, as well as Google’s Android Auto. While these decisions haven’t been universally popular, particularly for GM, the reasoning lies in maintaining greater control over the in-car experience. Automakers are increasingly prioritizing their proprietary systems over third-party integrations to retain influence over user data, branding, and software ecosystems.
Despite the tepid reception from manufacturers, Apple continues to tout its plans for the next-gen CarPlay. The software promises a more immersive experience, extending its functionality across multiple in-car displays and providing deeper integration with core vehicle controls like climate and seat adjustments. However, the lack of tangible updates and definitive partnerships raises doubts about when—or even if—this vision will materialize in consumer vehicles.
Automakers’ reluctance stems not only from control concerns but also from the evolving landscape of in-car software. Increasingly, manufacturers are developing their own infotainment systems or partnering with technology providers like Google to build customized platforms. These systems give automakers greater flexibility to design unique user experiences while maintaining control over valuable customer data. This shift in priorities has left Apple’s expansive CarPlay plans in a precarious position.
Apple’s challenges are compounded by the competitive nature of the automotive software market. Rivian, for instance, has opted to exclude both CarPlay and Android Auto from its vehicles, favoring its proprietary interface instead. GM, on the other hand, announced it would phase out CarPlay and Android Auto in favor of a Google-powered infotainment system for its electric vehicles. These decisions reflect a broader industry trend where automakers seek to establish their own software ecosystems, reducing reliance on tech giants like Apple and Google.
While Apple’s CarPlay update might still resonate with some drivers who value seamless integration with their iPhones, automakers are weighing whether the trade-offs—such as ceding control over their in-car systems—are worth it. This dynamic has slowed the adoption of Apple’s next-gen software, leaving its rollout in limbo.
For now, the next generation of CarPlay remains an unrealized promise. Apple’s initial announcement painted a picture of a transformative in-car experience, but the lack of widespread manufacturer support has left many questioning its feasibility. While Porsche and Aston Martin have yet to deliver on their commitments, other automakers appear to have moved on, focusing on alternatives that give them greater autonomy over their vehicle software.
Apple’s ongoing references to its CarPlay plans indicate the company’s determination to push forward, but the absence of clear timelines or confirmed partnerships casts doubt on the software’s future. Without strong backing from automakers, Apple’s vision of a unified, Apple-centric in-car experience may remain more of a concept than a reality.
In the meantime, the automotive industry continues to evolve rapidly, with automakers increasingly favoring in-house solutions or bespoke collaborations with tech firms. Whether Apple’s next-gen CarPlay can overcome these hurdles and gain traction remains to be seen, but for now, its arrival is as uncertain as ever.