Apple's iOS 27 update brings a set of new CarPlay features, but access depends on which iPhone a driver owns. The software adds video playback, a redesigned Now Playing screen, new wallpapers, route sharing with vehicles and the updated Siri AI assistant. The update is available for the iPhone 11 and later, though some capabilities require newer hardware than that.
The most significant addition is support for video apps, which until now were limited on CarPlay to audio services such as Apple Music and Spotify. Playback is restricted to when the vehicle is parked, and the system detects motion, switching a video to audio-only if driving begins. Automakers must implement support for the feature, so apps like YouTube or Netflix may not work in a given vehicle yet.
Audio playback gains a persistent mini-player on the Now Playing screen, showing album artwork and playback controls alongside a long-awaited progress bar. Drivers can swipe to skip forward or backward through a song or podcast without reaching for the iPhone. Apple also claims CarPlay is more reliable under iOS 27, citing a more consistent wireless connection and more accurate GPS location reporting.
Navigation apps can now share route data with the car, including details such as EV charging stops. The vehicle can cross-check arrival times against Google Maps and Apple Maps and suggest charging locations along the route. Apple has also added new wallpapers for the CarPlay interface.
Siri AI arrives in CarPlay with iOS 27, answering general knowledge questions and drawing on personal context from emails, messages and calendar. Apple says drivers can ask for directions to a restaurant mentioned in a conversation, or use natural language in Apple Maps, such as requesting a route that avoids tolls. Because CarPlay runs entirely on the iPhone, older models lack the hardware to power the assistant in the car.
Siri AI requires an iPhone 15 Pro or an iPhone 16 or later. An iPhone 14 owner, for example, still receives the mini-player, the progress bar and the new wallpapers but not the new Siri experience. The assistant is also unavailable in the European Union because of local regulations, so compatible iPhone owners there get the other CarPlay features without it. Owners of iPhones older than the iPhone 11 do not receive the update, and their CarPlay continues with its existing features.
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