Two Exciting New CarPlay Features Coming in iOS 26
Apple’s CarPlay continues to evolve with each iOS update, and the upcoming iOS 26 brings several exciting enhancements. While big upgrades like the new Liquid Glass design and Messages app improvements are making headlines, Apple also revealed two smaller but highly practical CarPlay changes that users will appreciate. These updates—multi-touch map gestures and Sports Mode in Now Playing—are designed to make in-car interactions smarter, safer, and more enjoyable. If you're wondering what’s new with CarPlay in iOS 26, especially how it improves everyday usability, here’s what you need to know.
Multi-Touch Map Gestures Coming to CarPlay in iOS 26
One of the more subtle but useful CarPlay changes in iOS 26 is the ability to interact with navigation apps using multi-touch gestures, just like you would on your iPhone. This feature is supported in newer vehicles that are compatible with CarPlay Ultra. It allows drivers to pinch, zoom, and pan maps directly on the CarPlay screen—making it faster and more intuitive to adjust routes or explore alternate paths while driving.
This update is a direct response to user demand for more control over navigation without relying on physical knobs or voice commands. Apple’s CarPlay software engineer, Olivia Hess, emphasized this enhancement during WWDC 2025, noting that many modern vehicles already support multitouch and will seamlessly enable this capability once iOS 26 rolls out publicly. For frequent travelers or rideshare drivers, this seemingly small update can make a big difference in convenience.
CarPlay's New Sports Mode Enhances Live Game Streaming
Another noteworthy change is the addition of a Sports Mode in the Now Playing view, introduced with iOS 18.4 and continuing into iOS 26. This feature benefits users who listen to live sports through supported CarPlay audio apps. Instead of just audio controls, CarPlay will now display a live scoreboard, complete with team logos, current scores, and game time—all right on the dashboard.
Imagine you’re on a long drive but don’t want to miss the big game. With Sports Mode, you can keep track of what’s happening in real time without switching apps or looking at your phone. It’s a great example of how Apple is blending entertainment with situational awareness to offer a richer, safer in-car experience. This feature builds on Apple’s goal of delivering more personalized and dynamic content through CarPlay.
Why These CarPlay Changes Matter for Everyday Drivers
While these may not be headline-stealing features, they reflect Apple’s deeper focus on user experience and driver safety. Multi-touch navigation interactions offer iPhone-like control on larger CarPlay displays, which is particularly valuable in an era where touchscreen dashboards are standard. And Sports Mode adds meaningful, real-time context to live audio content, helping fans stay connected without being distracted.
Combined with bigger features like widget support, Tapbacks in Messages, and video playback via AirPlay, these smaller enhancements show how Apple is layering smart utility into CarPlay without overcomplicating the interface. For developers, it’s a sign that Apple is encouraging more interactive and context-aware apps within the CarPlay ecosystem. For users, it means a smoother and more integrated driving experience is just a software update away.
What to Expect Next for CarPlay with iOS 26
iOS 26 is currently in developer beta and expected to be released to all users later this year. As more vehicles support CarPlay Ultra, expect a broader rollout of interactive features like multi-touch gestures. Meanwhile, the sports-focused Now Playing updates are already live in iOS 18.4, so users can enjoy enhanced audio experiences right now if their apps support it.
Apple’s continued investment in CarPlay signals its long-term commitment to in-car innovation. Whether you’re navigating a road trip or catching up on your favorite team’s score, these small updates add up to a significantly improved driving experience. Make sure your iPhone is updated and your car supports the latest CarPlay features—because the best of in-car tech is just getting started.
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