Tesla is reportedly planning to finally add support for Apple CarPlay in the coming months. This move marks a major reversal from Elon Musk, who has long resisted integrating Apple's infotainment system.
What's happening with Tesla and Apple
For years, it's been the most requested feature from iPhone-owning Tesla drivers: Apple CarPlay. While Tesla has slowly embraced parts of Apple's ecosystem, adding Apple Music in 2022 and Apple Podcasts in 2023, full CarPlay integration has been stubbornly off-limits.
Now, according to a new Bloomberg report, that's finally about to change. Tesla is reportedly planning to roll out full support for CarPlay, a move that could happen in the coming months. This is widely seen as a "holy grail" feature for the many Tesla drivers who live inside the Apple ecosystem and have wanted a seamless way to use their iPhone's maps, music, and messaging apps on the car's large display.
Why the sudden change of heart
Tesla has for a long while resisted adopting CarPlay integration in its infotainment system. | Image credit — Bram Van Oost on Unsplash
Elon Musk's long-standing resistance was reportedly about protecting Tesla's own proprietary infotainment system, which is a core part of the vehicle's user experience. So what changed? In short: competition.
The report suggests that the shifting electric vehicle landscape is the primary motivator. With global competition heating up, the lack of CarPlay has become a significant drawback, potentially costing Tesla sales. Customers expect this level of integration, and its absence is a glaring omission.
There's another factor at play: Apple is no longer building a car. The report speculates that Musk would likely have never given in if Apple were still a direct competitor in the automotive space. With that threat gone, and Tesla needing to hit sales milestones, making this concession is now a necessary and pragmatic business decision.
Do you think the lack of CarPlay has caused some loss in sales for Tesla?
Yes
66.67%
No
33.33%
If you can't beat 'em, join 'em?
This is looking a lot like a classic "if you can't beat 'em, join 'em" scenario, and it's long overdue. Tesla's native system is slick, but it's not a person's iPhone. The convenience of CarPlay is its seamless, zero-effort integration with the device that many already use for their entire digital life.
Forcing users to use a separate, proprietary system for navigation and media—even a good one—is a point of friction. The stubborn resistance to CarPlay has always felt more like a personal battle than a user-focused decision. This change is a massive win for drivers, as it removes a key frustration and makes an already high-tech car feel truly connected to its owner's life, which is what modern in-car tech should be all about.
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Johanna 'Jojo the Techie' is a skilled mobile technology expert with over 15 years of hands-on experience, specializing in the Google ecosystem and Pixel devices. Known for her user-friendly approach, she leverages her vast tech support background to provide accessible and insightful coverage on latest technology trends. As a recognized thought leader and former member of #TeamPixel, Johanna ensures she stays at the forefront of Google services and products, making her a reliable source for all things Pixel and ChromeOS.
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