Apple's Live Activities feature coming to CarPlay in iOS 26

Apple is set to introduce Live Activities to CarPlay in iOS 26, expanding the feature that debuted on the iPhone three years ago. Live Activities will now display on CarPlay, allowing users to access real-time information such as flight status, food delivery, sports scores, and more. The feature can be toggled off if desired. This update is part of Apple's efforts to improve CarPlay and make it more user-friendly.

Apple is set to introduce Live Activities to CarPlay in its upcoming iOS 26 update, expanding a feature that debuted on the iPhone three years ago. This update, slated for release in September, will enable users to access real-time information such as flight status, food delivery, sports scores, and more directly from their vehicle's infotainment system.

Live Activities, which were first introduced on the iPhone 14 Pro, have since been expanded to other platforms, including Apple Watch and macOS. Now, they will be available on CarPlay, providing a seamless and convenient way for drivers to stay informed while on the go. Users will be able to see Live Activities on their CarPlay display, allowing them to keep track of various activities without having to manually check their iPhone [2].

One of the key advantages of this feature is its ability to provide real-time updates. For instance, if a user is picking someone up from the airport, a flight Live Activity can display the latest information on the flight's status. This can be particularly useful for those who need to stay informed about their travel plans or deliveries [2].

The introduction of Live Activities to CarPlay is part of Apple's ongoing effort to enhance the user experience of CarPlay. The update is expected to roll out alongside other new features, such as Apple's Liquid Glass design for backgrounds and wallpapers, and the introduction of widgets to standard CarPlay [1].

While the inclusion of Live Activities in CarPlay is a significant improvement, Apple has also been mindful of safety concerns. The feature will automatically pause video playback once the connected iPhone detects motion, ensuring that drivers and passengers do not engage in distracted driving [1].

Overall, the addition of Live Activities to CarPlay is a testament to Apple's commitment to making its technology more user-friendly and accessible. By integrating this feature into CarPlay, Apple is likely to further enhance the driving experience for iPhone users, providing them with a more engaging and informative interface.

References:
[1] https://www.usatoday.com/story/cars/technology/2025/08/15/apple-ios-26-update-carplay-airplay-car-drivers/85656747007/
[2] https://9to5mac.com/2025/08/20/carplay-is-about-to-get-one-of-apples-best-recent-iphone-features/