With iOS 26.4, Apple expands CarPlay with a new feature that was not previously planned: support for third-party AI chatbots. Services like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini can now be used directly via the CarPlay system. This marks the first time Apple has opened its in-car infotainment system to external, voice-based conversation apps. While the new feature is technically limited, it nevertheless brings about a noticeable change to the CarPlay ecosystem.
CarPlay has supported third-party apps for years, but only in select categories. Apple deliberately limits the available app types to prevent distractions while driving. Navigation, music, phone calls, and messages are allowed; many other applications are not.
Companies like Anthropic, OpenAI, and Google have so far been unable to offer their own CarPlay apps. Those wanting to use voice-controlled assistance in their cars were limited to Siri. With iOS 26.4, this situation changes fundamentally.
New app category in iOS 26.4
Apple's updated CarPlay Developer Guide lists a new supported app type starting with iOS 26.4: voice-based conversation apps. This category is specifically intended for AI services that rely on dialogue-based interaction. Affected services include, but are not limited to:
- ChatGPT by OpenAI
- Claude from Anthropic
- Gemini by Google
These AI apps can be integrated into CarPlay in the future, provided they meet the new requirements.
The new voice control screen
A key technical innovation in iOS 26.4 is the so-called voice control screen. Apple is introducing a special user interface that is displayed during active voice interactions.
Apps can provide visual feedback via this screen while a conversation is in progress. The display is optimized for in-vehicle use and reduced to the essentials.
Support for this voice control screen is mandatory for developers. An AI app can only be used in CarPlay if it integrates this function.
New permissions for AI apps
With iOS 26.4, Apple is also introducing a separate permission for voice-based conversation apps. Companies developing chatbots must:
- update their app,
- to apply for special authorization,
- Implement the voice control screen.
Only after these adjustments is it possible to use CarPlay. This allows Apple to retain control over which applications have access to the system.
Functionality and clear limitations
The integration allows for hands-free use of AI chatbots in the vehicle. Questions can be asked by voice, and answers are also voice-based. The focus is clearly on conversation. At the same time, Apple sets clear limits:
- The apps cannot control vehicle functions.
- You cannot control iPhone functions.
- There is no activation option for third-party apps via a system command.
This means that the respective app must first be opened manually before it can be used. Only after it has been launched will voice-based interaction be available via the new screen.
This means that ChatGPT, Claude or Gemini function exclusively as conversation partners in the vehicle, not as system assistants with control rights.
Safety as a guiding principle
With iOS 26.4, Apple continues to uphold its principle of minimizing distractions while driving. The restriction to voice interaction, the absence of system controls, and the specially designed voice control screen are all part of this concept.
CarPlay thus remains a controlled environment. The new openness to AI services does not mean complete unlocking, but rather a clearly regulated expansion.
iOS 26.4 officially brings AI chatbots to CarPlay
With iOS 26.4, Apple CarPlay opens up to third-party AI chatbots for the first time. ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini can thus be used in vehicles, albeit under clearly defined conditions.
The update expands CarPlay's functionality without compromising existing safety principles. Voice-based conversation becomes possible, while system control remains unavailable. iOS 26.4 thus marks a cautious but important step toward AI integration in cars. (Image: Apple)
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