With iOS 26.4, Apple is preparing an important enhancement for CarPlay. In the future, it will be possible to watch videos directly on the car's display via AirPlay – but only when the vehicle is stationary. Initial indications in the beta version of iOS 26.4 show that the feature is already being technically integrated, even though it hasn't been officially activated yet. This new feature was already announced at WWDC 2025 and is taking concrete form with the current beta.
CarPlay has been an integral part of the Apple in-car ecosystem for years. Navigation, music, phone calls, and messaging are its core features. With iOS 26.4, Apple is now expanding this functionality to include video streaming.
The important safety requirement is that videos can only be played when the vehicle is parked. The car must be stationary before content can be displayed on the car's screen. Apple also points out that car manufacturers must support the new feature, as the system logic detects whether the car is in motion.
Notes in the source code of iOS 26.4
Several new code snippets were discovered in the first beta version of iOS 26.4, clearly indicating an integrated CarPlay video function. This function is currently neither visible nor activatable for users.
However, software developer Thomas Dye has managed to partially get the function working in Xcode's CarPlay simulator on a Mac. He demonstrates an early form of the video streaming function in a YouTube video.
The simulation shows for the first time in concrete terms how Apple envisions video streaming in CarPlay.
AirPlay videos directly on the vehicle display
With iOS 26.4, videos from any AirPlay-enabled app can apparently be played on an iPhone connected to CarPlay. This means that content is not limited to specific apps, but can basically be used with all compatible applications.
The video is displayed on the car's screen. Simultaneously, an additional button appears on the iPhone in the Dynamic Island app. This button allows the video to be displayed directly on the iPhone again if the larger screen in the vehicle is not to be used.
The demo also illustrates that the system blocks playback as soon as the vehicle is moving. Its use is therefore clearly tied to the car being stationary.
Apple TV app in CarPlay
Another component of the demo is a dedicated Apple TV app within CarPlay. This app allows access to TV shows and movies from the Apple TV streaming service, as well as content from the user's personal media library.
Additionally, a separate tab for the MLS Season Pass is integrated. This suggests that sports broadcasts will also be available directly in the vehicle.
However, it is not yet definitively clear whether the Apple TV app will actually appear with its full range of functions in the final version of CarPlay. The current status is based solely on simulations within the beta version of iOS 26.4.
Possible release period
iOS 26.4 is expected to be released to the general public in late March or early April. However, it is not guaranteed that the CarPlay video function will be activated directly with this update.
Should Apple require additional development time, the feature could be postponed to iOS 26.5 or a later update. While the beta provides clear indications of the integration, official confirmation of the final release is still pending.
Another factor is support from vehicle manufacturers. Since the video function technically needs to verify that the vehicle is parked, its actual availability also depends on implementation by the car manufacturers. This can mean it takes time before the function is widely available.
iOS 26.4 takes CarPlay to a new level of entertainment
iOS 26.4 is expected to bring one of the biggest enhancements to CarPlay in years. The integration of video streaming via AirPlay, as well as a possible Apple TV app directly in the vehicle, clearly marks a shift towards entertainment.
The feature has not yet been officially released, but the beta version shows that the technical implementation is well advanced. Whether it will launch with iOS 26.4 or be postponed to a later update remains to be seen.
One thing is certain: With iOS 26.4, Apple expands CarPlay to a new dimension that goes far beyond navigation and music – while still adhering to strict safety guidelines. The best products for you: Our Amazon storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Apple)
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