Aston Martin first to launch Apple’s next-gen ‘CarPlay Ultra' software

Aston Martin has become the first carmaker to integrate Apple’s next-generation CarPlay Ultra system, marking a major step forward in in-car infotainment technology.

Announced on Thursday, the updated system will roll out to all new Aston Martin models sold in the US and Canada, including the DB12, Vanquish, Vantage, and the latest DBX SUV — provided they feature the brand’s post-2023 infotainment platform.

Unlike previous versions, CarPlay Ultra takes full control of both the infotainment display and digital dashboard, offering granular customisation of instrument clusters, themes, and wallpapers.

This includes speedometer, tachometer, and full-screen navigation layouts, all styled to match Aston Martin’s distinctive design language.

Apple’s updated CarPlay also enables users to control climate, media, and vehicle settings using touch or Siri voice commands.

Some essential functions, such as reverse camera feeds, will remain independent of the CarPlay interface.

CarPlay Ultra requires an iPhone 12 or newer running iOS 18.5.4 or later.

Aston Martin confirmed that eligible existing models will receive the upgrade via a dealer-installed software update in the coming weeks.

The move places Apple in direct competition with Google’s Android Auto, which already offers deep system integration in several car brands.

Apple noted that Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis are also planning to support CarPlay Ultra soon.

This long-awaited launch follows Apple’s original 2022 promise of a more immersive CarPlay experience, although several brands listed then — including Mercedes-Benz — have since opted out of implementing the new platform.