A new level of smartphone-car integration
Aston Martin is the world’s first automaker to integrate Apple CarPlay Ultra. The new version of the popular software better integrates iPhone-compatible software into Aston Martin’s automobile operating system, meaning CarPlay will now be a part of both the infotainment touchscreen and the digital instrument cluster.
Aston Martin
CarPlay Ultra works with iPhone 12s or newer running iOS 18.5 or later. The new Aston Martin DBX, Vantage, DB12, and Vanquish will get the software starting today, while existing 2025 model-year Aston Martins and the 2024 Aston Martin DB12 can access it in the coming weeks through the automaker’s dealer network.
“Aston Martin is delighted to have collaborated with Apple and to be the first to launch CarPlay Ultra,” said Adrian Hallmark, Aston Martin’s CEO. “The integration of CarPlay Ultra is a clear example of the dedication to collaborate with the best companies in the world to bring unique experiences and in-vehicle capabilities to our customers.”
Beyond the basics
Aston Martin
Aston Martin’s 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen or digital instrument cluster will now display maps, music album covers, or lane information. More than that, Apple says that standard vehicle functions like the car’s audio system, climate controls, advanced vehicle-specific features, and performance settings can be changed from within CarPlay and are displayed along with the speedometer, tachometer, and tire pressure. Drivers can use Siri or the car’s physical buttons, which are retained for transmission, drive mode selection, and climate, to control these functions. There are also override switches for the chassis, ESP, exhaust, Lane Assist, and Park Distance Control.
Aston Martin
Apple CarPlay Ultra features the familiar infotainment screen and Apple CarPlay home page, but swiping to the right brings up a new widgets page that features time and weather, as well as any other iPhone widgets that users want to add. Functions are not mirrored from the iPhone, but are carried out locally, integrating Aston Marin’s native user interface. That means you never have to leave CarPlay to activate non-CarPlay functions.
“With CarPlay Ultra, together with automakers, we are reimagining the in-car experience, making it even more unified and consistent,” said Bob Borchers, Apple’s vice president of Worldwide Product Marketing. “This next generation of CarPlay gives drivers a smarter, safer way to use their iPhone in the car, while deeply integrating with the car’s systems.”
Aston Martin
Final thoughts
Aston Martin is merely the first automaker to get the new Apple software. CarPlay Ultra will also be coming to Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis vehicles, although the software’s design will be customized to the unique look and feel of each automaker. “This is just the beginning, with more automakers on the way,” Borchers said.
