Apple is gearing up to roll out iOS 26 next month as a stable version, while the Public beta is already out. While iPhone has already got a bunch of exciting upgrades with the iOS 26, the CarPlay is getting one of its most requested features – video playback. But before you get too excited, there’s an important detail you should know.
For the first time since CarPlay launched nearly a decade ago, Apple will officially allow apps to play videos directly on the CarPlay screen. The feature, called AirPlay video in the car, will let you stream videos from your iPhone while the vehicle is parked, Apple’s developer website informed.
So yes, you could soon watch your favourite content right from your car’s infotainment display. But there’s a big limitation.
But There Is A Catch!
You need to know that the new capability isn’t something that will automatically appear once you update to iOS 26. Automakers have to enable it. That means even if you’re running iOS 26, your car may not support video playback unless the manufacturer decides to roll it out. And as history shows, some brands might take months to adopt it or skip it entirely.
Not only that, if you’re part of the iOS 26 beta program, don’t expect to try video playback just yet. Apple has made it clear that the feature will only work in supported vehicles after the official release and only when the car is parked.So while it’s exciting news, there’s a chance you may not see it in action immediately this fall.
Other CarPlay Improvements in iOS 26
Even if your automaker doesn’t jump on board with video playback, there’s still something to look forward to. iOS 26 will bring:
- Redesigned icons and new appearance options
- Widget support for quick access to information
- Updates to Music and Messages apps
These changes don’t require carmaker approval, so they should be available to all compatible vehicles from day one in September.
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