Apple has shocked the world with its latest announcement of iOS 26. The upcoming iOS 19 is now being referred to as iOS 26, as Apple has decided to merge the version number with the year ahead.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the connection between iOS 26 and Apple CarPlay, including new features, compatibility updates, and upgrade tools.
If you’re a CarPlay user or planning an upgrade, this is everything you need to know to stay ahead.
When will iOS 26 be Released?
iOS 26 (formerly iOS 19) will be released in September 2025. A preview of iOS 26 will be released next week. The reason for changing the sequence of numbers in the iOS version is to align it with the year ahead. Typically, it comes as iOS 19 after iOS 18, but with this new sequence, it comes as iOS 26, just like iOS 27 in 2026, iOS 28 in 2027, and so on.
CarPlay Ultra was recently released, and with the CarPlay Ultra features, iOS 26 is coming to the market.
What are the New iOS 26 CarPlay Features?
In addition to the iOS 18.5 CarPlay features, iOS 26 Apple CarPlay has introduced two new features.
These are the new iOS 26 Apple CarPlay features, and you can explore the features of iOS 18.5 here.
What are the iOS 26 Compatible Devices?
iOS 26 is not compatible with iPhone XR, iPhone XS, and iPhone XS Max. These devices will no longer support CarPlay with iOS 26 and beyond.,
Even though iOS 26 supports these iPhone models, some advanced features may be limited to the latest iPhones with the fastest processors. Like Apple Intelligence in iOS 18, it only runs in the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 16 series.
So far, we have talked about the new iOS 26 features and their origin. The following I have listed some additional upgrades that you can do for your CarPlay.
What's New in iOS 26 vs iOS 18.5
| Feature | iOS 18.5 CarPlay | iOS 26 CarPlay |
|---|---|---|
| Mail App Improvements | Yes | No mention |
| New Pride Wallpapers | Yes | No mention |
| Apple TV App Purchase | Yes | No mention |
| Screen Time Notifications | Yes | No mention |
| Satellite Features | Yes | No mention |
| Large Text on CarPlay Screen | No | Yes |
| Sound Recognition (e.g., baby cries, horns, sirens) | No | Yes |
How to Add Any App on CarPlay
Ready to unlock the full potential of Apple CarPlay with iOS 26?
Here are the top tools and devices that let you add YouTube, Netflix, and more to your CarPlay screen safely and easily.
Software Solutions
Hardware Solutions
WheelPal
WheelPal is a CarPlay upgrade solution that can add any app, including YouTube, Netflix, etc, to CarPlay. To add apps like YouTube, Netflix to CarPlay, you should have a jailbroken iPhone.
WheelPal is not compatible with the latest iOS 18.5 version and the upcoming iOS 26 version.
Disclaimer: Jailbreaking an iPhone may void the warranty and create security issues. The recommended way is not to jailbreak your iPhone; instead, use non-jailbreak solutions for better safety.
Drive Safe: Use these solutions only when your vehicle is parked. Enjoy entertainment responsibly.
InCar App
InCar app is a CarPlay simulation app. With the InCar app, you can use your iPhone as the CarPlay screen. InCar has YouTube, Netflix, etc, on the same interface as CarPlay.
The InCar app is compatible with the latest iOS 18.5 and earlier versions. Also, with the upcoming iOS 26 version.
Installation guide for InCar App
Carlinkit AI Box
The Carlinkit AI box is one of the famous AI boxes in the CarPlay world. Play YouTube, Netflix on CarPlay, and is capable of adding any app to the CarPlay screen. I have tested this AI box, and it is a good method for this purpose.
Features:
Ottocast AI Box
Ottocast is also a famous AI box in the market. Turn wired CarPlay into wireless CarPlay and add any app to the car screen. YouTube, Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, Disney+, ESPN etc can be added to the screen using the built-in Play Store app.
Features:
Advantages of Using an AI Box
Disadvantages of Using an AI Box
Conclusion
In this context, I have discussed iOS 26 CarPlay connection and how iOS 26 works on CarPlay. Along with iOS 26, there is a newly introduced CarPlay Ultra that is taking place in the market, going to make a huge conversion in the CarPlay world. For everything about the CarPlay Ultra, you can refer to this article.
After, I discussed the CarPlay upgrade solutions to add any app to the CarPlay screen. With my personal experience with these solutions, I have listed them for you as well. iOS 18.5 was also recently released. You can refer to this article to know how iOS 18.5 works on CarPlay.
iOS 26 and CarPlay Ultra are transforming the in-car experience. Whether you're looking to upgrade with new features or add your favorite apps to CarPlay, the tools listed above can help you get started, just be sure to stay safe and use them responsibly.