The holiday season is upon us, a time when Apple and other tech companies often go quiet on new announcements. However, there’s still one significant update we anticipate, as suggested by Apple’s website: the debut of the first next-generation CarPlay vehicles.
Apple’s Year-End CarPlay Announcement Tradition
It marks exactly a year since Apple delivered on its commitment to unveil the first next-gen CarPlay cars before the conclusion of 2023. The initial two manufacturers to make the announcement were Porsche and Aston Martin.
Yet, there remains another CarPlay-related promise yet to be fulfilled. For some time, and still today, Apple’s website has indicated that the first next-gen CarPlay models would ‘arrive in 2024.’
As the year wraps up, we are left waiting for any update regarding this promise.
It’s likely that Porsche, Aston Martin, or potentially another automaker is gearing up to make an announcement in conjunction with Apple before the new year.
Alternatively, it’s also possible that the launch of the next-gen CarPlay has been pushed back with no update reflected on Apple’s website just yet.
The 2024 Deadline Approaches, Yet Time Remains
I frequently check Apple’s CarPlay page, half-expecting to see an announcement stating that the first models will now arrive in 2025 or are ‘coming soon.’
Thus far, there has been no official change.
However, Apple still has time. Last year, it waited until December 20 to announce next-gen CarPlay details. Perhaps they plan to keep us hanging a bit longer this year.
I might be overly optimistic, but the absence of an update could, theoretically, indicate a forthcoming announcement.
Anticipated Features of the Next Generation of CarPlay
As a reminder, here’s what to expect from the next-gen CarPlay, according to Apple:
The next generation of CarPlay is the ultimate iPhone experience for vehicles. It delivers content across all driver displays, including the instrument cluster. This ensures a unified design aesthetic that showcases the best of both your car and your iPhone — with customization options reflecting each automaker’s character and branding. Car functions such as radio and climate control can be operated directly through CarPlay. Personalization features, from widgets to tailored instrumentation designs, make the experience tailored to the driver.
For more in-depth information, you can check our comprehensive overview.
Here’s hoping we receive more updates on CarPlay soon—and that they are positive developments.
Do you believe the first next-gen CarPlay models will still launch this year? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Top CarPlay Accessories
FTC: We utilize income-generating auto affiliate links. More.
