Apple TV And Other Streaming Services Could Be Coming To CarPlay

Apple allows developers access to CarPlay so that they can make apps for the popular in-car phone projection software. The system is pretty much the best way to integrate your life into your car these days, allowing music streaming, texts, directions, and phone calls to integrate seamlessly. The system could get even better with the launch of iOS 26, allowing developers to begin to integrate video playback into apps. Soon, you could be watching videos in your car via AirPlay.

Stream video content to your car

The change can be seen on Apple's developer page: "For automakers, CarPlay Ultra brings the best of iPhone and the best of the car together for a deeply integrated experience. And you can support video in the car so people can watch their favorite content when they aren’t driving."

CarPlay Ultra is the latest iteration of the phone projection software, which also allows for more seamless integration of CarPlay, adapting the look and feel of your specific vehicle, rather than simply slapping CarPlay into the center screen. That means a consistent look and feel, in addition to new functionality, like the potential for video playback. Drivers can show information from their iPhones, like maps and music, along with information that comes from the car, such as advanced driver assistance systems and tire pressure, side-by-side.

Apple promised video playback back in June, when it launched iOS 26, but put the availability of the feature in the hands of automakers. Obviously, there are some regulatory concerns here, and all automakers that feature in-car playback meet certain requirements. For example, Audi's second passenger screens can stream media and games, but feature a special glass that blocks the driver's view of the screen. If playback is to happen on the center screen, automakers also have to ensure the feature only works when the vehicle is parked to limit distractions.

Video, should an automaker decide to allow for it, could also come from Apple TV, which the company says will be available through CarPlay. Of course, developer access also opens the door for many other streaming companies, such as Amazon and Netflix, to create their own apps for streaming via CarPlay. For now, users will have to wait for a broader rollout of CarPlay Ultra and the playback functionality before they can enjoy streaming content to their vehicles. You'll also need a relatively current iPhone: CarPlay Ultra works with iPhone 12 or later running iOS 18.5 or later, and the rollout of CarPlay Ultra will expand to include vehicles globally in the next few months.