Apple confirms next

Apple had named Acura, Audi, Ford, Honda, Infiniti, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Polestar, Porsche, Renault, and Volvo as committed automakers when first announcing the next generation CarPlay. Apple later added Aston Martin to the list but has provided no further information regarding more changes to the list. 

What to expect from the next-generation CarPlay

MacRumors delved into the first beta of iOS 17.4 and discovered a number of new CarPlay apps. Following its reports, Apple CarPlay will now have access to vehicle information, which will enable drivers and occupants to control the car’s functionality within the CarPlay ecosystem to a greater extent. 

This includes functions like reversing cameras, climate control, media, radio stations, and even vehicle diagnostics. The trip information, including the distance traveled, fuel or energy efficiency, the vehicle’s average speed, and more, will also be made accessible with the new Apple CarPlay. For electric vehicles, the app will show the battery level, charging status, time, and all necessary battery information.

New images in the iOS 17.4 beta have also confirmed that users will be able to adjust the theme and color scheme of next-generation CarPlay, including the appearance of the instrument cluster. One image uncovered in the iOS 17.4 beta reveals that the CarPay might display a "Goodbye" screen after the driver shuts off the vehicle.

Though Apple has not revealed information regarding where it intends to debut this CarPlay, it is expected that this CarPlay will be available in many regions of the world as Apple previously mentioned that over 800 models will be compatible, including cars from Tata, Mahindra, and others.

There are still a lot of questions regarding the expected CarPlay. Apple has also not indicated if any features of the next-generation CarPlay will be made available in the existing vehicles with the classic CarPlay support. It is also unclear whether this update will enable all partner manufacturers to produce brand-centric designs. However, we expect that the company will be more forthcoming with details after iOS 17.4 is released in March.