Apple will soon add the ability to watch videos via CarPlay in iOS 26

Apple has announced (via MacRumors) a new feature for CarPlay that will soon allow iPhone users to stream videos to their car's display using AirPlay technology. However, the viewing will only be available when the car is parked, to avoid distracting the driver while driving.

Apple notes that to use this feature, automakers must integrate CarPlay with AirPlay Video support into their multimedia systems. This means that the ability to watch videos may not be implemented in all cars, but only in models that receive an update with CarPlay support. It is not yet known whether the new feature will be compatible with existing vehicles or will be introduced exclusively for new models.

Some manufacturers already offer similar capabilities, such as Tesla with its built-in Theater app, which supports streaming video from Netflix, Hulu, YouTube, and Twitch.

Previously, there were unofficial ways to watch videos through CarPlay, including through third-party apps or jailbreak tweaks, but now Apple is officially adding this feature.

Apple is encouraging automakers and software developers to join the MFi program to implement new CarPlay features, which also include CarPlay Ultra and car system dongles.

It is important to note that the ability to watch videos in CarPlay may depend on regulatory safety requirements in different countries.