Apple’s CarPlay Ultra Is Finally Expanding Beyond Luxury Cars

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Apple is getting ready to expand CarPlay Ultra beyond its current exclusivity with Aston Martin, with more mainstream vehicles expected to arrive in the second half of 2026.

According to Mark Gurman’s Power On newsletter for Bloomberg, at least one major model from either Hyundai or Kia is set to gain CarPlay Ultra later this year. Apple has previously confirmed that Genesis is also part of its rollout plans.

What CarPlay Ultra Brings to Your Dashboard

Unlike standard CarPlay, CarPlay Ultra takes control of multiple screens inside the vehicle. It blends iPhone-powered apps with real-time vehicle data, including speed, fuel level, battery status, tire pressure, and engine temperature.

Drivers also get native interfaces for climate controls, radio functions, and rear camera feeds, all designed to match each automaker’s visual style. Users can choose from multiple layout presets, allowing for a more personalized dashboard experience.

Other Automakers are Still Hesitant

Not every car brand is eager to embrace Apple’s deeper in-car integration. BMW, Ford, and Rivian have publicly played down interest in CarPlay Ultra.

General Motors has gone even further, removing standard CarPlay from its newer EV lineup. This move effectively rules out CarPlay Ultra for brands such as Chevrolet, Cadillac, and GMC.

Tesla also appears unlikely to support CarPlay Ultra, although reports suggest the company may reconsider adding standard CarPlay support in the future.

What This Means Going Forward

If Hyundai or Kia launches CarPlay Ultra later this year, it would mark Apple’s first serious push toward mass-market adoption. That shift would give buyers outside the luxury segment their first look at Apple’s fully integrated in-car experience, with other brands likely to follow once the rollout gains momentum.

Would you want CarPlay Ultra in your next car? Let us know in the comments.

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