iPhone in the car: widgets for CarPlay, more car keys – and still no browser
In addition to iOS 26, macOS 26 and the like, Apple has also announced improvements for CarPlay. An overview of the new functions.
Widgets in CarPlay: Calendar and HomeKit control here.
(Image: Screenshot Apple.com)
Along with its other new operating systems, from iOS 26 to macOS 26 and tvOS 26, Apple also announced new features for CarPlay this week. Apple's vehicle integration is getting a new look as well as various minor and major improvements.
New design, widgets, more
The design is to be based on the "Liquid Glass" interface already used in the other systems. Widgets that can be placed on the home screen are now also integrated. As examples, Apple demonstrated elements from HomeKit and the calendar, among others. However, developers can also build their own widgets. The Messages app has tapbacks for quick replies, and live activities are now also displayed in the vehicle. The new UI now displays phone calls and other incoming messages in such a way that the current view is not obscured.
Apple has still not integrated a browser; the company recently banned such a browser – as well as video playback – via its App Review. It is not relevant whether the car is stationary or not. The category has not been permitted to date, although it would not be a technical problem to implement it. The new interface is also coming to CarPlay Ultra, although this deeper integration into the car has not yet landed in Europe anyway.
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Car keys for more cars
Apple's Car Key function, a way to unlock the car via iPhone or Apple Watch, will "soon" receive more support from car manufacturers. In addition to existing partners such as Audi, Mercedes, BMW, Volvo, Hyundai, Kia and Genesis (by no means all models), Porsche, Smart, Acura, Chevrolet, Cadillac, GMC, Rivian, Lucid Motors, Tata Motors, Hongqi, WEY, Chery and Voyah are also set to join in. It has not yet been announced which vehicles will be affected.
The car key function uses Bluetooth and NFC. Technically, the function is supported from the iPhone XS onwards (iPhone SE from the second generation). The Apple Watch must be a Series 5 or newer, SE and Ultra / Ultra 2 also work. The digital key is stored in Apple's Wallet app. Apple's Home Key for electronic locks is now also available for smart homes, although it is still not widely used in Europe.
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