Apple CarPlay Ultra Launches Globally with Aston Martin at the Helm

Abu Dhabi : Apple’s newest in-car tech takes smartphone-car integration to new heights, and it’s arriving first with a luxury icon before heading to wider markets, including the UAE.

• Apple debuts CarPlay Ultra with Aston Martin in the U.S. and Canada.
• Features include full-screen displays, real-time car data, and Siri control.

Apple has officially revealed CarPlay Ultra, the most advanced version of its in-car smartphone interface to date. Debuting first with Aston Martin, this new system delivers a more immersive and customizable driving experience.

It moves beyond the traditional center infotainment layout, allowing content to span across multiple in-car displays, including the instrument cluster and climate controls.

This next-level tech represents Apple’s clearest push into the core vehicle experience, with the system controlling car functions such as air conditioning, drive modes, and media settings.

With more brands ready to join in, CarPlay Ultra looks set to become a premium must-have, especially in tech-forward regions like the UAE.

What Makes CarPlay Ultra Unique

Apple has taken big steps with CarPlay Ultra, creating a deep integration between iPhone and vehicle systems.

Users can now access not only apps like Maps, Music, and Messages but also view and interact with car data such as speed, fuel, RPM, and temperature through Apple’s own interface.

The control methods are flexible. Drivers can use traditional knobs, touchscreens, or Siri to operate everything from music to performance settings.

Apple has also added themes and widgets that adapt to each vehicle’s brand, offering a visual identity co-designed with each automaker.

Aston Martin worked closely with Apple on this integration. The result is a luxury user experience tailored to match the automaker’s high-end style.

Key Features of CarPlay Ultra

• Full-screen visuals across all vehicle displays, including cluster and climate panels.
• Control of vehicle systems through Siri, touchscreen, and physical buttons.
• Real-time vehicle data integration like fuel levels, driver-assist tools, and speed.
• Personalised UI with custom widgets, wallpapers, and automaker-branded themes.
• Co-developed design aesthetics with each car brand’s styling team.

Rollout Plans and Regional Outlook

CarPlay Ultra is now live on new Aston Martin vehicles sold in the U.S. and Canada. Apple has confirmed that a software update will soon be pushed to existing models with Aston Martin’s latest infotainment hardware. A wider rollout will follow, covering more global markets over the next year.

The Middle East is among the regions where demand for CarPlay is already high. Given that many UAE drivers expect smartphone connectivity in their cars, and with Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis joining the list of brands adopting CarPlay Ultra, it is likely that 2026 models will carry the tech in local showrooms.

What to Expect in the UAE Market

UAE buyers value advanced digital tech in vehicles, particularly in luxury and flagship models. With CarPlay already common in many vehicles, the next-generation Ultra version is expected to appeal to both premium and mainstream users.

As Apple continues to partner with automakers, the UAE could see wider access to this feature through future model updates and new launches.

Apple says, “More global automakers will adopt the system over the next year,” indicating the UAE won’t be far behind in receiving this advanced integration.