Apple is adding support for third-party AI assistants in CarPlay starting with iOS 26.4, allowing apps like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini to run directly in the car.
The change was found in Apple’s updated CarPlay Developer Guide, which published a new title called “CarPlay voice-based conversational app” with a minimum requirement of iOS 26.4.
The feature is not yet available in the current beta.
What is changing in CarPlay
With iOS 26.4, Apple will allow developers of voice-based conversational apps to build CarPlay versions of their software assistants.
This opens the door for:
- ChatGPT (OpenAI)
- Claude (Anthropic)
- Gemini (Google)
to integrate directly into the CarPlay interface.
Developers will need to update their apps to support CarPlay in the future.
How it will work in CarPlay
Drivers will be able to ask questions using supported AI apps while connected to CarPlay.
There are important limitations:
- The assistants cannot control car functions.
- They cannot control iPhone system settings.
- Wake words (such as “Hey ChatGPT” or “OK, Gemini”) are not supported.
Instead, users will need to manually tap the assistant’s app in CarPlay to begin a conversation.
Apple’s developer guidance also states that voice-based conversational apps:
- Operate only while voice interaction is active
- Avoid displaying unnecessary text or imagery during responses
This keeps the focus on audio interaction and reduces driver distraction to not increase the risk of a road accident.
The function is not available yet
Although the upgrade appears in iOS 26.4 documentation, the feature is not even live in the beta build.
Do not install the iOS 26.4 beta, expecting immediate access to AI assistants in CarPlay.
As with any developer beta, early updates may contain bugs or other issues. Installing them on your main device can affect daily usage or risk data loss.
What this means for drivers
If implemented widely, this change would allow drivers to use AI assistants for:
- General knowledge questions
- Quick information lookups
- Contextual explanations while driving
- Or even GPS navigation
Because assistants cannot control the vehicle or phone settings, the integration is focused strictly on conversational use.
Apple has always limited the apps allowed in CarPlay. This will especially be for voice-based conversational apps.
There is no confirmed timeline found for when AI assistant support will become available in a public release.
Do you use CarPlay? If yes, what are your favorite apps?
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