Apple introduces CarPlay Ultra, a vehicle system designed to rival Android Auto.
After a long wait, Apple has finally announced that the next generation of CarPlay, now called CarPlay Ultra, will be available starting today. The software will be available first on new Aston Martin vehicles purchased in the United States and Canada, while existing Aston Martin models in both countries will receive the software as an update in the coming weeks. The Cupertino-based company says that the technology will be available worldwide over the next 12 months.
Apple says several other automakers are continuing to work on integrating CarPlay Ultra into their vehicles. Apple also notes that brands such as Hyundai, Genesis, and Kia have recently joined the commitment to adopt the platform in their products.
With the new generation of CarPlay, Apple seeks to establish itself as a stronger alternative to Android Auto. While CarPlay Ultra can still display information from the user's iPhone, it is deeply integrated with the car to present data through its displays and instrument panel. It also provides access to Siri and connects to the car's physical buttons to provide every possible option for controlling everything from basic to advanced functions.
On screens and devices, CarPlay Ultra can display the speedometer and tachometer, as well as fuel gauges, tire temperature and pressure, and driver assistance features. It also offers the option to interact with climate control settings, radio, audio system settings, or vehicle performance settings. You can also extract information from your iPhone, such as music, maps, and even widgets, to view and control from within the car.
Another interesting point Apple boasted about during the CarPlay Ultra presentation is that the interface adapts to each manufacturer. This means that not all brands will see the same software design in their vehicles. Apple points to its close collaboration with each automaker, starting with Aston Martin, to develop custom themes that reflect their specific look and philosophies.
At this time, it's unknown which companies will follow Aston Martin's lead and integrate the new CarPlay Ultra into their products. However, it wouldn't be surprising if more automakers decide to adopt this idea. It all probably depends on how users receive the program.