Apple CarPlay Evolves With AI Integration and Expanded Vehicle Support

Hyundai and Kia will begin rolling out Apple CarPlay Ultra across select vehicle models in the second half of 2024, marking the first major deployment of the enhanced infotainment system outside of Genesis vehicles.

The rollout follows Genesis’ introduction of CarPlay Ultra in its 2024 GV80 and G80 models, which debuted earlier this year with full-screen integration, real-time instrument cluster synchronization and support for third-party app widgets directly on the dashboard.

Apple confirmed the expansion to Hyundai and Kia lineups during its Worldwide Developers Conference in June, specifying that the feature will be available on 2025 model year vehicles equipped with the latest generation of the companies’ ccNC (Connected Car Navigation Cockpit) infotainment system.

CarPlay Ultra enables a seamless extension of the iPhone interface across multiple vehicle displays, including the digital instrument cluster and heads-up display, allowing navigation maps, media controls, and vehicle status to persist without switching screens.

The system as well introduces support for live activities from third-party apps, enabling real-time updates from sports, ride-sharing, and food delivery services to appear directly on the dashboard without requiring drivers to unlock their phones.

Apple has emphasized that CarPlay Ultra requires explicit vehicle manufacturer cooperation, as it depends on deep integration with the automaker’s hardware and software architecture, including access to vehicle speed, gear status, and door state for contextual automation.

Hyundai and Kia have not disclosed which specific trims or regions will receive the update first, though industry analysts note that South Korea and North America are likely initial markets given the companies’ development priorities and existing ccNC deployment.

The update will be delivered over-the-air for compatible vehicles, eliminating the demand for a dealership visit, and will require an iPhone running iOS 18 or later to activate the full feature set.

Apple has not announced a timeline for broader rollout to other automakers, though sources familiar with the matter indicate that ongoing discussions are underway with several European and Asian manufacturers regarding future integration.

Neither Hyundai nor Kia has responded to requests for comment regarding the exact launch date or regional availability of CarPlay Ultra in their 2025 model vehicles.