Apple’s expanded in-car system, CarPlay Ultra, is hitting roadblocks. Several major automakers are pushing back, arguing that the system gives Apple too much control over vehicle interfaces.
Unveiled in 2022 and launched in Aston Martin cars in May 2025, CarPlay Ultra extends beyond infotainment. It now includes access to instrument clusters and in-car functions like air conditioning. While Apple sees this as innovation, carmakers see it as an overreach.
Automakers Prefer In-House Solutions
Car companies like Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Volvo, Renault, and Polestar have publicly declined to adopt CarPlay Ultra. Some of these were previously listed by Apple as future partners.
Their main concern? Apple’s deeper integration could limit automakers’ control over dashboard real estate and user experience. One Renault executive reportedly told Apple, “Don’t try to invade our own systems.”
Volvo’s CEO even admitted that tech companies excel at software, but insisted carmakers should still offer their own branded digital experience.
Money Also Drives the Rejection
Beyond control, revenue plays a key role. Infotainment systems have become new profit sources. Automakers can sell subscriptions for services like navigation, entertainment, or safety features. Handing over the system to Apple risks losing that income stream.
This strategy mirrors GM’s 2023 move to ditch CarPlay and Android Auto in favor of Google’s built-in system.
Still, many companies will keep supporting the standard CarPlay experience, even as they develop their own alternatives. BMW and Audi are among those continuing with regular CarPlay but stopping short of adopting Ultra.
Consumers Still Want CarPlay
Despite automakers’ hesitations, customer demand for CarPlay remains strong. A 2024 survey found that drivers rated infotainment systems with CarPlay higher than those without. The top complaints about in-car systems—confusing menus and poor audio switching—are areas where CarPlay excels.
