Apple CarPlay to Add Support for ChatGPT and Other AI Chatbots

New iOS 26.4 update will let drivers converse with AI assistants while on the road.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Apple's upcoming iOS 26.4 update will bring support for third-party AI chatbots like ChatGPT and Gemini to its CarPlay platform, allowing drivers to verbally interact with the AI assistants while behind the wheel. This new functionality will expand on CarPlay's existing voice command capabilities, which previously only allowed users to interact with Apple's own Siri assistant.

Why it matters

The integration of AI chatbots into CarPlay represents a significant expansion of in-car voice assistant capabilities, potentially giving drivers more flexibility and functionality while on the road. However, there are some limitations, including the need for chatbot developers to specifically update their apps for CarPlay compatibility and the inability to issue car or phone commands through the AI assistants.

The details

According to the CarPlay Developer Guide, the upcoming iOS 26.4 update will support voice-based chat apps on CarPlay. This means users will be able to verbally interact with third-party AI chatbots like ChatGPT and Gemini while driving, in addition to the existing Siri voice commands. However, the chatbots will require specific updates from their developers to work with CarPlay, and users won't be able to use wake-up words to activate the AI assistants. Additionally, the chatbots will be limited to answering questions and won't be able to issue commands to the car or the user's iPhone.

  • The iOS 26.4 update with CarPlay chatbot support is expected to launch in the spring of 2026.

The players

Apple

The technology company that develops the iOS operating system, CarPlay, and Siri voice assistant.

ChatGPT

An AI chatbot developed by OpenAI that can engage in conversational interactions.

Gemini

Another AI chatbot that may be integrated into CarPlay through the iOS 26.4 update.

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What they’re saying

“Now, we just need to wait and see if Apple includes the AI-powered Siri we've all been waiting for in iOS 26.4, though it looks unlikely.”

— Alex Perry, Tech Reporter (Mashable)

What’s next

The iOS 26.4 beta is currently available, with the full update expected to launch in the spring of 2026. Developers of AI chatbots will need to update their apps to ensure compatibility with the new CarPlay features.

The takeaway

The integration of AI chatbots into CarPlay represents a significant step forward in in-car voice assistant technology, providing drivers with more flexibility and functionality while on the road. However, the feature will have some limitations, and it remains to be seen how widely adopted and utilized the new capabilities will be.