Latest Apple CarPlay update adds customisable features
The Evolution of CarPlay Customization
Apple's CarPlay has steadily transformed from a simple mirroring tool into a highly personalized in-car assistant. The latest update in iOS 26.2 marks a significant leap forward, introducing customizable features that give drivers unprecedented control over their dashboard experience, continuing Apple's methodical approach to in-car innovation.
For years, CarPlay offered a static interface with limited personalization, but the introduction of widgets in iOS 26 began to change that narrative. Now, iOS 26.2 builds on this foundation, not just by adding more widget space but by refining user choice in subtle, powerful ways. This shift from a one-size-fits-all system to a adaptable platform shows how Apple is listening to driver feedback, making every commute feel uniquely yours.
Unpacking the iOS 26.2 Update: More Widgets on Screen
The headline feature of this update is the expansion of widget stacks for compatible vehicles. In previous versions, CarPlay typically displayed two widget stacks, but iOS 26.2 bumps this up to three for many users, as reported by tech observers like Tom Warren from The Verge. This might seem like a small change, but it's a game-changer for multitasking behind the wheel.
With an extra widget stack, you can keep more glanceable information at your fingertips—think weather updates, music controls, navigation hints, and calendar reminders all visible without tapping. This enhancement is vehicle-specific, meaning it depends on your car's screen size and capabilities, but for those who get it, the interface becomes significantly more functional. Apple hasn't released an official list, but user reports confirm that larger displays in modern vehicles are the primary beneficiaries.
How to Access and Configure Extra Widget Stacks
Accessing this new widget real estate is straightforward through your iPhone. When parked, open the Settings app, tap General, then CarPlay, and select your vehicle. Tap on Widgets, and if your car supports it, you'll see the option to add and arrange up to three stacks. You can drag to reorder them or tap to remove any you don't need, ensuring your most crucial info is always front and center.
Taking Control of Your Messages: Disabling Pinned Conversations
Another thoughtful addition in iOS 26.2 is the ability to disable pinned conversations in the Messages app. Pinned chats, introduced in iOS 26, allowed users to keep important threads at the top of the list, but on smaller car screens, they could clutter the view and make scrolling through recent messages a hassle.
Now, Apple offers a toggle to turn this feature off, reverting to a simple, chronological list of conversations. This might appear minor, but it's a brilliant example of user-centric design—acknowledging that not all interfaces work equally well in every context. By giving drivers this choice, Apple ensures that the Messages app remains intuitive and safe, regardless of your vehicle's display size.
Why This Setting Matters for Different Screen Sizes
For compact cars with tiny screens, pinned conversations could overshadow new messages, forcing unnecessary scrolling while driving. The new setting eliminates this friction, prioritizing recent chats for quick access. It's a subtle tweak that highlights Apple's focus on usability, proving that true customization isn't just about adding features, but also about letting users strip them back when needed.
Beyond the Basics: Advanced Widget Personalization
Widgets in CarPlay aren't limited to Apple's first-party apps. iOS 26 opened the door to third-party widgets, and with tools like Widget Studio, you can create custom backgrounds and layouts. Imagine having a widget that shows real-time traffic for your route, air quality indexes, or even personalized workout stats—all built from your favorite apps.
This level of personalization extends to parameters within widgets. For instance, the Calendar widget lets you choose which calendars to display or hide all-day events. Such granular control transforms your car's dashboard into a dynamic hub that reflects your daily priorities, not just a static extension of your phone.
Exploring Third-Party Widgets and Custom Backgrounds
Venturing beyond default options, apps like Windy offer detailed weather forecasts, while others provide music streaming controls or news headlines. Some widgets require a premium subscription, but many are free, and the setup process is intuitive: use your iPhone to browse available widgets in the CarPlay settings, add them to your stacks, and customize backgrounds or sizes to match your aesthetic. This democratization of design means every driver can craft an interface that feels uniquely theirs.
Setting Up Your Ideal CarPlay Dashboard
Creating the perfect CarPlay setup involves more than just adding widgets—it's about optimizing for safety and efficiency. Start by enabling features like Smart Rotate or Widget Suggestions, which use on-device intelligence to surface relevant widgets based on your habits, time of day, or location. This smart curation reduces distractions, keeping your focus on the road.
Arrange your widget stacks so that the most frequently accessed info is on the left, with less critical items to the right. For example, place navigation or music controls in the first stack, weather in the second, and reminders or messages in the third if available. Regularly review and tweak this layout as your needs change, ensuring your dashboard evolves with you.
Step-by-Step Guide to Rearranging and Managing Widgets
To rearrange, go to Settings > General > CarPlay on your iPhone, select your car, and tap Widgets. From here, drag widgets up or down to reorder stacks, or tap the minus icon to remove them. You can also toggle Smart Rotate to let iOS automatically cycle through widgets based on context. Remember, all changes sync in real-time, so you can experiment until you find the perfect balance between information density and clarity.
The Future of In-Car Interfaces: What These Updates Signal
These incremental updates in iOS 26.2—more widget stacks and customizable message settings—signal a broader trend toward adaptive, driver-centric technology. Apple is moving beyond mere functionality to foster a sense of ownership over the in-car experience. By blending hardware awareness with software flexibility, they're setting a new standard for how we interact with our vehicles.
Looking ahead, we can expect further integrations, perhaps with smarter AI predictions or expanded compatibility across vehicle models. For now, these features empower drivers to tailor their journeys like never before, turning every drive into a personalized, seamless extension of their digital life. Embrace these changes, experiment with your setup, and enjoy a dashboard that truly works for you.