For a long time, Apple’s ambitious CarPlay Ultra project has felt more like a promise than a reality. Introduced at Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference back in 2022, the upgraded version of CarPlay was meant to transform how drivers interact with their vehicles. It promised a seamless digital cockpit, stretching Apple’s interface across every screen inside the car while integrating deeper into vehicle systems.

Yet, despite the hype, its rollout has been slow, almost to the point where many began questioning if CarPlay Ultra would ever truly take off. Until now, only luxury brands like Aston Martin had announced support, and while Porsche confirmed it was on board, details have remained scarce. This meant that, for everyday drivers, CarPlay Ultra seemed out of reach, both financially and practically.

That narrative is about to change.

Hyundai Steps In with Ioniq 3

According to recent reports, Hyundai is preparing to introduce CarPlay Ultra in its upcoming Ioniq 3 model. The car is expected to debut at the Munich Motor Show next week, making it the first widely accessible vehicle to feature Apple’s next-generation in-car experience.

Unlike Aston Martin’s high-priced offering, the Hyundai Ioniq 3 is projected to retail between $30,000 and $40,000. This puts it within reach for a much larger audience, potentially making CarPlay Ultra available to the average driver for the very first time.

What Makes CarPlay Ultra Different

The original CarPlay, which has been around for years, essentially mirrors iPhone apps onto the infotainment display. It’s useful, but limited. It doesn’t control the car, nor does it integrate with the driver’s main instrument cluster or other displays.

CarPlay Ultra changes that. Instead of being confined to just one screen, Apple’s upgraded platform spans across the dashboard, including the digital instrument cluster behind the steering wheel and even passenger displays. This means critical driving information like speed, battery levels, and navigation guidance can all be presented in a unified Apple-designed interface.

Beyond visuals, CarPlay Ultra also gains deeper access to the car’s systems. It can read real-time battery data in electric vehicles, control rear cameras, and even support new apps designed specifically for in-car functions. In other words, Apple isn’t just offering an infotainment add-on. It’s positioning CarPlay Ultra as the central hub for the car’s digital life.

Why Automakers Have Been Hesitant

So far, most carmakers have resisted adopting CarPlay Ultra. One of the main reasons is control: Apple’s system essentially takes over the in-car experience, which many manufacturers see as too intrusive. Carmakers prefer to promote their own infotainment platforms, which allow them to collect data, create custom features, and build brand loyalty.

Because of this, adoption has been sluggish. Aston Martin unveiled the first model with CarPlay Ultra earlier this year, but due to its price tag, it’s not a realistic option for most buyers. Porsche, on the other hand, has yet to show its hand despite confirming early support.

That’s why Hyundai’s decision is so significant—it breaks the luxury-only barrier and could encourage other mainstream automakers to follow suit.

A Turning Point for CarPlay Ultra?

If the Hyundai Ioniq 3 launch is successful, it may reshape the trajectory of CarPlay Ultra. Apple has long wanted to expand its influence in the automotive industry, and making its system accessible in a mid-range EV could be the breakthrough it needs.

The Ioniq 3’s debut in Munich will likely be closely watched, not just by potential buyers, but also by rival carmakers evaluating whether to give in to Apple’s push.

For drivers, the benefits are clear: a smoother, more connected, and deeply integrated Apple-powered experience that feels less like a phone add-on and more like a true digital cockpit. For Apple, the challenge remains convincing more automakers to give up control and let CarPlay Ultra run the show.

With Hyundai leading the charge, the future of CarPlay Ultra suddenly looks a lot brighter.

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