Apple debuts next-gen CarPlay Ultra with Aston Martin

Apple CarPlay Ultra will be initially launched in the USA and Canada.

Apple has launched the second generation of its CarPlay called CarPlay Ultra. Aston Martin is the first manufacturer in the world to offer the new system to customers.

Apple CarPlay Ultra builds upon CarPlay's capabilities. All real-time information is displayed across both the infotainment touch screen and the instrument cluster. CarPlay Ultra extends to the instrument cluster, with a number of seamlessly designed options for the speedometer and tachometer dials drivers can choose from, as well as the ability to display maps and media in full screen. It provides drivers with a way to curate their own multi-screen set-up and the freedom to modify the layout.

Drivers can choose from a number of different instrument cluster themes, whilst also being able to tailor the colours and wallpapers to match their individual tastes. Functions like radio and climate can be managed right from within CarPlay Ultra with touchscreen controls, physical buttons, or Siri. Drivers can also add widgets powered by iPhone that perfectly fit in Aston Martin’s 10.25” infotainment screen or instrument cluster.

The new system provides full online connectivity and is displayed using a 10.25” Pure Black touchscreen with full capacitive single and multi-finger gesture control. However, physical buttons are retained for key operations of gear selection, drive selection, heating and ventilation. There are also override switches for Chassis, ESP and Exhaust, Lane Assist and Park Distance Control.

Aston’s new-gen infotainment system debuted in 2023 with the DB12. It is the carmaker’s first in-house development, and that has allowed the brand to work directly with Apple to flawlessly integrate CarPlay Ultra.

CarPlay Ultra will be initially launched in the USA and Canada. It will be available as standard on the Vantage, DB12, Vanquish and the DBX super SUV. It will be available as an update for existing models in the coming weeks.

Apple CarPlay Ultra availability will expand to include all global markets within the next 12 months. It requires an iPhone 12 or later, running iOS 18.5 and later.