Apple’s next-gen CarPlay Ultra is facing resistance from Mercedes, Audi, Volvo, and others, raising concerns about dashboard control and in-car software independence.
Apple’s CarPlay Ultra Hits Speed Bumps as Mercedes, Audi, and Others Back Away
CarPlay Ultra, Apple’s ambitious upgrade to its in-car software, is hitting some serious resistance. A new report from the Financial Times reveals that several major automakers are pulling back from supporting the next-generation dashboard system, despite Apple’s claims that it’s the future of connected driving.
From Excitement to Ejection: What’s Going On?
When Apple first announced CarPlay Ultra in 2022, it listed 14 car brands, including Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Volvo, Polestar, and Renault, as committed partners. But in a surprising U-turn, most of these brands are now distancing themselves from the system.
CarPlay Ultra is a fully immersive dashboard experience, expanding Apple’s control beyond maps and music to include speed, fuel, climate, and other core vehicle data. Sounds futuristic, but automakers aren’t thrilled.
According to the FT, brands like Renault are pushing back hard. One Renault exec reportedly told Apple:
“Don’t try to invade our own systems.”
Why the Retreat?
The backlash centers around control and monetization. Luxury carmakers want to preserve their own branded software experiences, especially as vehicles become more software-defined. Letting Apple run the whole dashboard means giving up valuable screen real estate, and revenue from services they can otherwise own.
For example:
- Mercedes-Benz had already hinted at hesitation in an interview with The Verge.
- Audi has now confirmed it will stick with standard CarPlay only.
- BMW says CarPlay Ultra isn’t part of its roadmap either.
Meanwhile, Jaguar Land Rover, Ford, and Nissan are non-committal.
Only Aston Martin, Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis seem fully on board. Porsche has signaled future support.
What’s Next for CarPlay Ultra?
Despite the defections, Apple remains optimistic. The company told FT that it is continuing to work with more automakers, saying:
“We’re collaborating closely with automakers to provide the best of iPhone and the best of the car—and this work takes time.”
Still, with just one production vehicle currently supporting CarPlay Ultra, Apple may have to adjust its strategy or risk losing traction in a market it once dominated.
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