Back in May 2025, Apple announced plans to broaden the availability of CarPlay Ultra among numerous vehicle manufacturers, including Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis, aiming for a rollout within a year. While anticipation has been building, a recent report from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman suggests that at least one significant new model from either Hyundai or Kia could feature CarPlay Ultra by the second half of 2026.

Despite the enthusiasm surrounding this advanced technology, not all car manufacturers are on board. CarPlay Ultra is designed for comprehensive integration with the car's built-in systems and displays, yet companies like GM are moving away from CarPlay altogether. Ford also remains cautious about adopting this new platform, which raises questions for consumers who prioritize connectivity in their vehicles.

One of the standout features of CarPlay Ultra is its customization options, which allow drivers to tailor the interface to match their vehicle’s identity. This flexibility, paired with the ability to pull critical vehicle data directly onto the display, is part of what makes CarPlay Ultra an attractive option for tech-savvy drivers.

The hesitance shown by certain manufacturers stems from a desire to maintain control over their vehicles' software and interface design. For instance, BMW, Ford, and Rivian are not heavily prioritizing CarPlay Ultra, while GM has already eliminated standard CarPlay from several of its electric vehicles, indicating an unlikely future for CarPlay Ultra in their lineups.

Though the adoption timeline for CarPlay Ultra may be slower than anticipated, the technology’s potential to enhance the driving experience is undeniable. For iPhone users, the integration promises a seamless interaction between device and vehicle unlike anything seen before. As more manufacturers embrace the technology, we look forward to seeing the innovative capabilities that CarPlay Ultra will bring to the market.