Apple fans are eagerly awaiting this upcoming update: A new leak provides a sneak peek at the redesigned CarPlay vehicle application, intended for the next generation of smart vehicle systems. The schematics were revealed in the database of the European Union Intellectual Property Office, where Apple filed to protect the new design of the system. This is yet another indication that the launch of the new CarPlay is approaching, following the discovery of new system icons in the iOS 18.2 code.
The schematics show various user interfaces for the system, including some featuring the logo of the German manufacturer Audi. Back in June 2022, when Apple first unveiled its vision for the next generation of CarPlay, it was announced that Audi would be among the companies adopting the system. However, to date, the manufacturer has not shared official details about concrete implementation plans.
This latest information complements previous demonstrations of the system, such as those seen in December 2023 when Aston Martin and Porsche showcased designs for vehicles supporting the next generation of CarPlay. However, no car fully supporting the updated system has yet hit the market.
While the repeated exposure of the interface isn’t entirely new, Apple has introduced the updated design several times before. The fact that the company continues to submit patent registration applications suggests progress toward an eventual launch. According to the company’s website, the first vehicles supporting the next-generation system are expected to arrive in 2024, though a precise timeline has yet to be announced.
CarPlay is a platform developed by Apple and first launched in 2014 to enable smart integration between iPhones and vehicles. The system allows users to operate apps such as navigation, music, and phone calls directly from the car’s infotainment screen, designed with a simple and driver-friendly interface.
One of CarPlay’s main advantages is its voice support via Siri, enabling users to control the system without taking their eyes off the road. Over the years, the system has received significant updates and is now supported by hundreds of car models worldwide.
The remaining question is whether Apple will meet the 2024 launch target, especially with so little time left in the year. The new schematics and the ongoing intellectual property registration process suggest that the company is still actively working toward the launch.