Apple CarPlay Ultra is the Next-Gen Infotainment System, Marks Debut with Aston Martin

Apple has announced the much-anticipated debut of its next-generation CarPlay, dubbed ‘CarPlay Ultra’, with British luxury automaker Aston Martin. The rollout begins in the U.S. and Canada, debuting on the high-performance DBX SUV and Aston Martin’s core sports cars — the Vantage, DB12, and Vanquish. CarPlay Ultra will be a standard feature on all new vehicle orders in these regions. While a broader global rollout is set to take place over the next 12 months, Aston Martin’s CarPlay Ultra integration isn’t limited to new buyers. Existing models will gain access to the new system through a software update available at dealerships. Notably, CarPlay Ultra is compatible with iPhone 12 and later models, running on iOS 18.5 or above. Read on for details.

Apple CarPlay Ultra: Here’s All You Need to Know

CarPlay Ultra enhances the in-car experience by seamlessly merging the functionality of the iPhone with the vehicle’s system. It extends the display experience beyond the central to all driver-facing screens, including the instrument cluster. This integration infotainment screen allows for the display of familiar iPhone features, such as maps and media controls, alongside critical car data in real-time. With customisable gauges for key metrics like speed, RPM, fuel level, and engine temperature, CarPlay Ultra maintains a cohesive visual design across all screens, making it easier for drivers to access essential information without shifting focus between displays.

Bob Borchers, Apple’s vice president of Worldwide Product Marketing, said ‘iPhone users love CarPlay, and it has transformed how people connect with their vehicles. With CarPlay Ultra, together with automakers, we are reimagining the in-car experience, making it even more unified and consistent.’

Also Read: Aston Martin DBX S Unveiled as the Brand's Most Powerful SUV with 717bhp Twin-turbo V8

He also added, ‘This next generation of CarPlay gives drivers a smarter, safer way to use their iPhone in the car, while deeply integrating with the car’s systems and showcasing the unique look and feel of each automaker.’

CarPlay Ultra provides drivers with multiple ways to control both basic and advanced vehicle features, making the driving experience more intuitive. Whether using onscreen controls, physical buttons, or Siri, they can easily manage everything from the car's radio and climate settings to more specialised features like audio system preferences or performance adjustments. In addition, CarPlay Ultra introduces iPhone-powered widgets that integrate perfectly into the car’s display or gauge cluster, giving drivers a quick view of important information without distraction.

CarPlay Ultra supports brand-specific design integration, allowing automakers to incorporate their own visual identity into the system. Developed in coordination with Apple, these custom themes align with each vehicle’s interior design and interface style. Drivers also have the option to personalise visual elements, such as background colours and wallpapers, creating a user experience that feels both native to the car and tailored to individual preferences.

Also Read: 2026 Aston Martin Vanquish Volante Unveiled Globally with 823bhp Twin-Turbo V12

Adrian Hallmark, Aston Martin’s CEO, said, ‘As a brand, our focus on world-leading performance goes beyond the traditional attributes associated with powertrains, dynamic performance, and craftsmanship. The integration of CarPlay Ultra is a clear example of the dedication to collaborate with the best companies in the world to bring unique experiences and in-vehicle capabilities to our customers.’