CarPlay and Android Auto Will Soon Support Video Apps

For years, watching YouTube or Netflix on CarPlay or Android Auto has been restricted – and for good reason. Glancing away from the road is dangerous, and even if you think you can just “listen” to the video, it’s hard to resist peeking at the screen.

Many enthusiasts have already found workarounds by using Android boxes or jailbroken iPhones to unlock full video streaming on their infotainment systems. These devices essentially replace Android Auto with a full Android interface, giving you access to apps like YouTube, Netflix, games, and more directly on your car’s display.

While this setup works, it also bypasses built-in safety restrictions, allowing video playback while driving – which is a major safety concern.

Official Video App Support Is Finally Coming

Now, there’s big news: Google and Apple have confirmed that official video app support is coming to both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

Google’s Plan for Android Auto

• Google will introduce video playback as a beta feature later this year.

• No exact date has been announced, but early beta testing is expected in the fall, with full rollout by the end of the year.

• As with other apps, developers will need to adapt their platforms for Android Auto compatibility.

Apple’s Plan for CarPlay

• Video app support will debut with iOS 26, Apple’s next major software update.

• iOS 26 is currently in testing and is expected to launch publicly in September.

• Compatible devices: iPhone 11 and newer.

• However, even after iOS 26 goes live, video support may not be available immediately. Apple is expected to finalize and enable it later in the year.

Safety First: Only When Parked

Both Apple and Google have made one thing clear: video playback will only work when the vehicle is stationary.

This means:

• You can watch videos while parked, charging, or waiting in your car.

• Playback will automatically pause when the vehicle starts moving.

• Audio-only playback while driving is under consideration, but not yet confirmed.

This restriction aligns with the companies’ focus on driver safety. Video streaming while driving remains a distraction risk, and regulators worldwide are strict about preventing in-motion screen use.

Which Apps Will Be Supported?

• YouTube is expected to be among the first apps available on both CarPlay and Android Auto.

• Other streaming platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and Prime Video are likely to follow.

• Developers will need to update their apps for compatibility, so not all video services will work immediately.

• To use these apps, you’ll still need to have them installed on your smartphone.

What This Means for Drivers and Car Enthusiasts

This move marks a huge milestone in in-car entertainment. No more complicated hacks or risky workarounds – soon you’ll be able to legally watch your favorite videos on CarPlay and Android Auto when your car is parked.

For many, this will make long charging sessions (for EV drivers) or school pick-up waits much more enjoyable.

Want More From Your CarPlay Experience?

At TheCarPlayer.com, we specialize in Apple CarPlay upgrade modules and wireless adapters for dozens of car brands. Whether you want to retrofit CarPlay into your existing vehicle or get more out of your infotainment system, our modules bring modern features – including video playback support – to cars that didn’t originally have them.

Bottom line:

• Video apps are officially coming to CarPlay and Android Auto by the end of the year.

• Safety restrictions will apply – playback only when parked.

• YouTube and Netflix are expected early, with more apps coming soon.

If you want to future-proof your infotainment system and get ready for iOS 26 and upcoming Android Auto updates, check out our CarPlay upgrade modules today.