Your Apple CarPlay is getting a big upgrade: 3 features I'm using on iOS 26 right now

It feels like Apple's annual Worldwide Developers' Conference (WWDC) was just weeks ago, but the pubic beta of Apple's biggest operating systems has already arrived, bringing big changes to Apple CarPlay users.

Also: How to install iOS 26 beta on your iPhone (and which models support it)

While you'll have to enroll in the beta to get early access to the newest iOS 26 features, here's a quick overview of all the new features you can expect in Apple CarPlay by this fall.

1. New CarPlay design

Along with the redesign of iOS 26, CarPlay is following suit with a new look. The new design extends into the car for a consistent, expressive experience while you drive. This includes icons that look great in light or dark mode, and a more compact design for notifications so you can still see the directions clearly on your ...