In a major coverage shift, Apple will let iPhone customers stream movies on to their CarPlay screens for the primary time for the reason that platform’s launch. With iOS 26, showcased at WWDC25, the tech big launched AirPlay video performance for CarPlay. So you possibly can stream video from apps within the automobile — however solely while you’re parked.
Watch movies on CarPlay display: iOS 26 permits AirPlay streaming to CarPlay screens for first time (when parked)
For the primary time since CarPlay launched in 2014, the brand new function in iOS 26 — described on the developer web site — will allow AirPlay wi-fi video streaming from iPhones to CarPlay-compatible shows.
“AirPlay video within the automobile permits folks to look at their favourite movies from iPhone proper on their CarPlay show after they aren’t driving,” Apple stated. “Combine help for CarPlay with AirPlay video to allow this function in your automobile.”
However Apple will implement strict security measures to stop distracted driving. Video playback will solely operate when automobiles are stationary and parked. How? The linked iPhone robotically detects automobile motion and terminates playback when the automobile begins transferring.
This safety-first strategy addresses longstanding considerations about driver distraction whereas nonetheless offering leisure choices throughout acceptable occasions. The restriction ensures compliance with visitors security laws whereas opening new prospects for in-vehicle leisure.
Requires automaker help
Rolling out this performance gained’t occur in a single day, as automobile producers should combine help for CarPlay with AirPlay video capabilities. Apple’s developer documentation signifies automakers must particularly allow this function of their techniques. That would imply a gradual deployment throughout totally different automobile fashions and types.
The function seems designed to work with each commonplace CarPlay and the premium CarPlay Extremely system. Nevertheless it stays unclear whether or not current automobiles will obtain updates to help video streaming or if it’s restricted to new automobiles.
Nice for EV homeowners ready on a cost
It’s straightforward to think about the video streaming functionality would possibly thrill electrical automobile drivers most. They usually spend time parked at charging stations. Whereas ready for his or her automobiles to cost, drivers and any passengers may get pleasure from all types of leisure on the automobile’s infotainment display.
So the event brings Apple’s system nearer to what some automakers, like Tesla, already provide natively. Its Theater app streams content material from widespread platforms like Netflix, YouTube, Hulu, and Twitch by way of the automobile’s dashboard show when parked.
No extra unofficial workarounds
Beforehand, iPhone customers looking for video playback by way of CarPlay needed to depend on unauthorized strategies, together with jailbreak modifications and beta purposes that bypassed Apple’s restrictions. These unofficial options usually violated Apple’s phrases of service and doubtlessly compromised system safety.
With this official implementation, customers will not must resort to such measures. They’ll get entry to reliable video streaming whereas sustaining system integrity and guarantee protection.
Broader CarPlay enhancements coming
The video streaming announcement comes alongside different deliberate enhancements to CarPlay in iOS 26, together with redesigned interface parts, expanded widget performance, and updates to core purposes like Music and Messages. These enhancements recommend Apple’s continued dedication to evolving the in-vehicle expertise.
The rollout timeline and worldwide availability might fluctuate relying on native security laws and automaker implementation schedules, however the change represents a major evolution in Apple’s strategy to automotive leisure techniques.
