Apple Eyes CarPlay Ultra Expansion to Hyundai, Kia Models in H2 2026

Q: Why is Apple’s CarPlay Ultra still stuck in Aston Martins, and which Hyundai, Kia, or Genesis model will finally break the delay?

CarPlay Ultra is still effectively stuck in Aston Martin because it is not a simple software add-on. Apple’s system takes over core dashboard functions, including the instrument cluster, climate controls, audio, cameras and vehicle data, so each automaker must build deep factory-level integration and custom branding around it. That has slowed adoption, and some major brands such as BMW, Audi and Volvo have reportedly backed away because they want to keep tighter control of the in-car interface. Aston Martin, a lower-volume maker with less legacy software to protect, was the easiest early partner. Apple has said Hyundai, Kia and Genesis are coming, and Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reported that at least one major new Hyundai or Kia model would gain CarPlay Ultra in the second half of 2026. As of now, however, no automaker has officially named the exact production model that will be next. The strongest candidate appears to be the Hyundai Ioniq 3. Multiple reports have pointed to it as the most likely first non-Aston vehicle to ship with CarPlay Ultra, and its timing fits Gurman’s second-half 2026 window. But that remains an informed expectation rather than a confirmed announcement from Apple or Hyundai. So the short answer is that the delay reflects the difficulty and strategic sensitivity of handing the whole dashboard to Apple, and the Hyundai Ioniq 3 is the leading contender to finally break Aston Martin’s exclusivity.

3 articles · Updated · MacRumors · Aug 19

At least one major new Hyundai or Kia model is expected to add CarPlay Ultra in the second half of 2026, potentially ending more than a year of exclusivity to Aston Martin vehicles.
May 2025 marked Apple's first public signal that Hyundai, Kia and Genesis planned to adopt the system, pointing to a broader rollout beyond luxury brands.
CarPlay Ultra goes beyond standard phone mirroring by integrating with the instrument cluster, climate and radio controls, rear-view camera feeds, and vehicle data such as speed, fuel level and tire pressure.
Each interface is customized to the automaker and model, with preset design options, as Apple pushes deeper into in-car software while relying on the iPhone for app-related data.