Apple CarPlay 2.0 Unveiled as "CarPlay Ultra" with Aston Martin as First Manufacturer to Offer the Update

Apple CarPlay 2, now called CarPlay Ultra, will finally be available after two missed launch promises. Aston Martin will be the first car manufacturer to deliver the next-gen in-car experience, with any of its vehicles ordered in the US and Canada shipping with CarPlay Ultra installed as standard. The update will also be available for current owners with compatible cars and iPhones, with a full market rollout expected over the next 12 months. CarPlay Ultra will allow drivers to have their iPhone nav directions appear in front of them, along with customizable interfaces and Siri integration.

Apple has finally delivered on its promise with the launch of CarPlay Ultra, the next-generation in-car experience, which is now available in new Aston Martin vehicles ordered in the U.S. and Canada. The feature, previously known as Apple CarPlay 2, will also be available for existing Aston Martin models through a software update in the coming weeks [2].

CarPlay Ultra integrates more directly with the vehicle, providing real-time content and gauges in the instrument cluster. This means drivers can have their iPhone navigation directions appear directly in front of them, along with customizable interfaces and Siri integration. The update allows for a more personalized and seamless driving experience [1].

Aston Martin is the first car manufacturer to deliver CarPlay Ultra as standard in its vehicles. The feature is expected to be rolled out to other automakers, including Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis, in the coming months [2]. This partnership underscores the growing trend of integrating advanced technology into luxury vehicles, aiming to provide drivers with an elevated and connected driving experience.

The rollout of CarPlay Ultra is part of Apple's broader strategy to enhance its ecosystem of products, including iPhones, which are integral to the CarPlay experience. The update is expected to be a significant driver of demand for new iPhones and iPhone upgrades, as users will need compatible devices to fully utilize the new feature [1].

In the financial sector, the success of CarPlay Ultra could have several implications. It may drive increased sales for Apple and its partners, as well as potential new revenue streams through software updates and customization options. Additionally, the feature could influence consumer preferences and spending patterns, potentially impacting the overall automotive market.

References:
[1] https://www.astonmartin.com/en-us/our-world/brand-stories/aston-martin-and-apple-carplay-ultra
[2] https://www.macrumors.com/2025/05/15/apples-carplay-ultra-now-available/