Apple is making a major change to CarPlay by allowing third-party AI assistants—including ChatGPT, Google Gemini, and Claude—to work through your vehicle’s dashboard. This news broke in early February 2026, and here’s what matters for your daily driving.
What’s Actually Changing
Starting in the coming months, you’ll be able to use advanced AI chatbots directly from CarPlay. This is significant because Apple has historically kept CarPlay locked down to protect Siri’s dominance.
How it works:
- Tap the AI app icon on your CarPlay screen to start
- Apps can automatically enter voice mode when opened
- Use these assistants for complex tasks like finding restaurant recommendations or summarizing information
- All interactions happen through the dashboard interface
What stays the same:
- Siri remains your primary assistant for system-level controls
- No steering wheel button or wake word access for third-party AIs
- The assistants won’t control climate, radio, or core iPhone settings
- They operate in a restricted “sandbox” environment
Why This Matters Now
Two forces are driving this shift:
Competition pressure: Tesla’s Grok integration and Android Automotive’s AI capabilities made CarPlay look outdated. Apple risked losing relevance in connected cars.
Safety concerns: Drivers currently fumble with their iPhones to access ChatGPT or Gemini while driving. Moving these tools to the dashboard keeps eyes on the road.
Timeline and Availability
The rollout depends on Apple’s software schedule:
- iOS 26.4 (spring 2026): May include third-party CarPlay support
- iOS 27 (June 2026): More likely launch window, potentially previewed at WWDC
- “Within coming months”: Apple’s official timeline
The feature will likely debut on newer vehicles first, with broader compatibility following later updates.
Managing This Update
Priority #1: Wait for the official release before changing your current setup. These are still rumors based on Bloomberg reports.
When it arrives:
- Evaluate whether you actually need AI assistants while driving
- Start with one assistant to avoid dashboard clutter
- Remember that Siri handles basic commands more efficiently than launching a separate app
Safety tip: The auto-voice mode feature means apps can start listening immediately when opened—convenient but potentially distracting during critical driving moments.
This update positions CarPlay for the AI era while maintaining Apple’s control over core vehicle functions. For most drivers, it means more powerful assistance for complex queries without the dangerous habit of reaching for your phone.