Apple Expands CarPlay to AI Assistants
The reported update would allow third-party AI voice assistants to operate within CarPlay, marking a shift from Apple’s previous Siri-only policy.
Topics
Apple is reportedly preparing to allow third-party artificial intelligence assistants to integrate with its CarPlay system.
According to reports, the company is developing support for external voice-controlled AI applications within CarPlay. This would enable tools such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT, Anthropic’s Claude and Google’s Gemini to operate through a vehicle’s interface.
CarPlay has historically restricted voice interactions to Apple’s own Siri assistant. Opening the system to third-party AI services would mark a notable change in platform policy.
Under the reported plan, drivers would not be able to replace Siri’s wake word or default activation controls. Instead, users would need to open a specific third-party app before using its voice features. Developers could configure their applications to activate voice mode automatically upon launch.
CarPlay serves as Apple’s interface layer between the iPhone and in-car systems, managing navigation, calls, messaging and media playback. Integration of advanced AI assistants could expand its capabilities to include conversational search, recommendations and information retrieval.
Also Read: Apple’s WWDC 25 Day 2 Updates: Wallets, CarPlay, and the Invisible Interface
The move comes as Apple continues to develop its own AI enhancements for Siri. The company is testing a feature known as “World Knowledge Answers”, designed to improve web search responses by summarising online content.
CarPlay itself has undergone gradual updates, most recently with interface enhancements introduced in iOS 26. Apple has also introduced CarPlay Ultra, a version that integrates more deeply with vehicle systems, including climate and seat controls. However, adoption of CarPlay Ultra has been limited, as it requires customisation by individual automakers.
Standard CarPlay remains widely available across manufacturers, and support continues to expand.
Apple has not publicly confirmed the reported changes.
For the automotive and technology sectors, the development reflects growing convergence between in-car systems and generative AI tools, as voice interfaces become central to digital driving experiences.
