With iOS 26.4, iPhone users will be able to use chatbots in the Apple CarPlay system. AI assistants like Claude, Gemini, and ChatGPT will be accessible from CarPlay for the first time.
Earlier this month, Bloomberg reported that Apple was preparing to update CarPlay to support voice-based interactions with AI applications like ChatGPT and Gemini. This support has officially arrived with the iOS 26.4 beta 1 update released this week.
CarPlay users are no longer limited to Siri
CarPlay has long supported third-party applications, but Apple limits the types of apps that can be used to ensure drivers are not distracted in the vehicle. Companies like Anthropic, OpenAI, and Google were previously unable to release CarPlay apps, which limited CarPlay users to Siri voice controls while in the car.
Support added with iOS 26.4 update
The new integration will allow CarPlay users to access voice-based applications like ChatGPT to ask questions hands-free, but the applications will not be able to control vehicle or iPhone functions. Furthermore, there will be no wake word option to activate a third-party application, so users will need to open the app to use the chatbot. Once the application is launched, a customizable voice control screen will offer users an in-car optimized chatbot experience.
OpenAI and Google also need to take action
While Apple has added basic support for such applications in CarPlay with iOS 26.4, companies like OpenAI and Google need to update their applications with CarPlay compatibility. Additionally, these applications will not replace Siri in CarPlay. A feature like ChatGPT in CarPlay will only be accessible by opening the dedicated ChatGPT app on your car's infotainment screen.
It remains to be seen whether Google and OpenAI will take advantage of this opportunity. OpenAI currently offers a native ChatGPT app for Mac and iPhone, while Google also has a native Gemini app for iPhone.
0 Comments: