Apple is gearing up to expand its CarPlay ecosystem by opening the door to third-party AI chatbots like OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini, allowing drivers to tap into advanced voice interactions for queries without disrupting core vehicle controls.
The integration, reported by Bloomberg on February 6, 2026, would enable users to access apps like ChatGPT, Gemini, or Anthropic’s Claude directly within CarPlay for hands-free questions on topics ranging from restaurant recommendations to general knowledge, marking a shift from Apple’s traditionally walled garden. However, these third-party AIs won’t replace Siri as the default assistant and can’t handle system commands like adjusting climate control, making calls, or navigating, ensuring safety and integration with Apple’s ecosystem. Developers will design in-car experiences that launch voice-based chat modes upon app opening, streamlining the process for drivers.
The update is expected to roll out in the coming months, potentially with iOS 26.4 in spring 2026, aligning with Apple’s broader AI push including enhanced Siri capabilities in iOS 27. This comes as CarPlay evolves, with recent iOS 26 betas introducing features like deeper vehicle integration for climate and media controls.
Apple’s move reflects a strategic opening to third-party AI amid competition from rivals like Google’s Android Auto, which already supports Gemini, and Amazon’s Alexa Auto for ChatGPT access. “This upcoming update represents a massive shift in the ecosystem by letting other voice models run natively,” noted a report from ITP.net.
As in-car AI heats up, Meta has integrated ads into its chatbot, while rivals like Samsung bolster Galaxy AI Apple’s CarPlay expansion could redefine hands-free driving, but success depends on seamless execution and developer adoption in a privacy-conscious market.
