Aston Martin has become the first automaker to integrate Apple's next-generation in-car system, CarPlay Ultra, into its vehicles, marking a significant advancement in automotive infotainment. This collaboration between Aston Martin and Apple offers drivers a deeply integrated and customizable driving experience.

What Is CarPlay Ultra?

CarPlay Ultra is Apple's latest evolution of its CarPlay system, designed to provide a more immersive and personalized in-car experience. Unlike the previous version, which was limited to the central infotainment screen, CarPlay Ultra extends its interface across all driver-facing displays, including the digital instrument cluster. This allows for seamless control of various vehicle functions and access to essential information directly from the driver's line of sight.

Key Features

• Full Dashboard Integration: CarPlay Ultra takes over both the infotainment screen and the instrument cluster, displaying dynamic visuals for speed, RPM, fuel levels, and more.

• Enhanced Vehicle Controls: Drivers can manage climate settings, audio systems, seat positions, and even driving modes through the CarPlay interface, using touch controls, physical buttons, or Siri voice commands .Customizable Themes: Aston Martin and Apple have collaborated to create bespoke themes that reflect the brand's luxury aesthetics. Drivers can personalize the interface with different color schemes and wallpapers to suit their preferences .

• iPhone-Powered Widgets: The system supports widgets powered by the user's iPhone, providing real-time information such as navigation, media playback, tire pressure, and weather updates directly on the car's displays .

Availability

CarPlay Ultra is now available in new Aston Martin models ordered in the U.S. and Canada, including the DBX SUV, Vantage, DB12, and Vanquish. Existing Aston Martin vehicles equipped with the latest infotainment systems from 2023 will receive CarPlay Ultra through a software update starting in June 2025 .

Future Expansion

While Aston Martin is the pioneer in adopting CarPlay Ultra, Apple has announced plans to roll out the system to other automakers, including Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis, over the next year. This expansion aims to bring the enhanced CarPlay experience to a broader range of vehicles and drivers .