Apple has taken the definitive leap in integration between its devices and the car with the arrival of CarPlay Ultra., the most advanced evolution of its automotive ecosystem. After a long wait and several delays since its initial announcement in 2022, the company has officially confirmed that its new platform is now available, although for now it is reserved for a very specific audience.
The world premiere of CarPlay Ultra takes place exclusively with new Aston Martin models., starting in the United States and Canada. Aston Martin owners equipped with the updated infotainment system will be able to receive the functionality via a software update in the coming weeks. However, the global rollout is planned for the next twelve months, with the UK and Europe expanding to the next year.
A system that transforms the driving experience
CarPlay Ultra goes far beyond traditional CarPlay features, which limited interaction to multimedia playback and maps on the center screen. Now, the system takes over all of the vehicle's screens, including the instrument cluster and even the climate control and radio controls. The driver will be able to view critical data such as speed, revolutions, fuel, temperature and tire pressure directly alongside maps, music, and driver assistance alerts. All of this is displayed with advanced customization options and themes that reflect each manufacturer's visual identity.
The system allows the user to manage both basic and advanced functions of the car via the touchscreen, physical vehicle controls, or voice activation with Siri. They also integrate iPhone-style widgets that allow you to check calendar, weather, or other notifications without losing sight of the road.
CarPlay Ultra debuts on new Aston Martins, both in the DB12, Vantage, Vanquish, and DBX 707 models, as well as in other brand vehicles equipped with the latest infotainment system. This collaboration marks a milestone for both Apple and the British firm, which is once again a pioneer in the adoption of Cupertino technologies—recalling that its current Chief Technology Officer already introduced the first CarPlay in Ferrari in 2014.
According to statements from executives at both companies, the integration is the result of a meticulous collaborative effort to offer an experience that goes beyond the industry standard. Users will also be able to customize the visual appearance of CarPlay Ultra with colors and wallpapers to their liking., making each car a different digital experience.
Compatibility, requirements and expansion to other brands
In order to use CarPlay Ultra, An iPhone 12 or later with iOS 18.5 or higher is required.. For now, its availability is limited to North America, but Aston Martin and Apple have confirmed the upcoming European rollout.In addition, new brands such as Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis are already working on incorporating the platform into their upcoming models, although there are no specific launch dates yet.
It highlights that, unlike the original CarPlay, the new version requires deeper technical integration with vehicle systems, which is why the transition will take time for the rest of the manufacturers.
One of the most notable aspects of CarPlay Ultra is the Collaboration with manufacturers to adapt the aesthetics and layout of the system to the philosophy of each brandThe visual experience, themes, and customization options can be customized, giving each car a unique interface.
In short, the arrival of CarPlay Ultra represents a decisive step in the trend of turning the car into an extension of the user's digital ecosystem.