How time flies. Apple initially revealed its next-generation CarPlay at WWDC 2022, promising that it would be present in vehicles launched in 2023. Yet, as 2024 draws to a close, no vehicles equipped with CarPlay 2 has yet to be released, although Apple’s website continues to claim that the first models with this technology will “arrive in 2024.” Can we still believe it for 2025?
Why CarPlay 2?
CarPlay 2 is expected to introduce a revamped user interface, improved customization, support for multiple dashboard screens, deeper integration with vehicle hardware like instrument clusters, as well as widgets and other features .
Here is the description of CarPlay 2 by Apple on its official website :
With the new version of CarPlay, find the best of the iPhone experience, directly in your car. When you’re behind the wheel, your vehicle and your iPhone become one and you benefit from a consistent interface on all screens, including the dashboard, with designs adapted to each manufacturer that express the brand and the uniqueness of your car. You can control different functions like the radio and temperature, directly from CarPlay. And with multiple customization options, such as widgets or a selection of meters and gauges, the driving experience is truly unique.
The causes of the delay?
The huge delay in the rollout of CarPlay 2 may not be solely Apple’s fault, as its implementation depends on the cooperation of automakers. Apple had announced collaborations with brands like Acura, Audi, Ford, Honda, Infiniti, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Polestar, Porsche, Renault and Volvo to introduce next-generation CarPlay. However, some automakers were ultimately reluctant to cede control of their vehicle’s dashboard interfaces to Apple.
Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius opted out of next-generation CarPlay earlier this year, preferring the company’s proprietary software for the in-car experience. Likewise, Porsche confirmed last month that it has no immediate plans to integrate CarPlay 2 into its vehicles. On the other hand, Aston Martin joined the list of adopters last year, presenting its version of CarPlay 2.
For his part, Mark Gurmanput forward another reason, based on the specific needs of brands:
Apple’s design team must work with automakers to create a tailored interface and style for each model. Even without a fully integrated approach, the new CarPlay still needs to be personalized.
As you can see, after being grandiose in 2022, Apple has been more and more discreet about CarPlay 2 in 2023 then in 2024. Despite everything, there is still hope since the firm has still presented new videos dedicated to CarPlay 2 at WWDC 2024, notably revealing the dark mode of the interface. Additionally, new icons for next-gen CarPlay have also been discovered in the iOS 18.2 code.
So, for us, it’s certain, CarPlay 2 will be released in 2025!
