CarPlay Gets Video Playback in iOS 26 – But Carmakers Still Refuse to Enable It

Apple CarPlay just received one of its biggest updates ever with iOS 26: the ability to watch videos directly on your CarPlay screen when parked. It’s the feature many users have been waiting for — but there’s one big problem. Almost no carmakers are enabling it.

Video on CarPlay: What’s New in iOS 26

For years, both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto have blocked video playback to prevent driver distraction. You couldn’t use apps like YouTube, Netflix, or Twitch on your screen, even if your car was stationary.

With iOS 26, Apple has finally introduced a safe and official way to enjoy video content inside your car. According to Apple’s developer documentation:

“AirPlay video in the car enables people to watch their favorite videos from iPhone right on their CarPlay display when they aren’t driving.”

In other words, you’ll be able to stream video apps through AirPlay to your CarPlay display, but only when the vehicle is not moving. Once you start driving, the video automatically stops — ensuring compliance with safety laws.

Why You Can’t Watch Videos Yet

Technically, the feature is ready. The problem is manufacturer support.
To make this new CarPlay video function work, two conditions must be met:

1. App developers (like YouTube or Netflix) must enable CarPlay compatibility.

2. Carmakers must allow video playback via AirPlay in their software.

So far, no major automaker has updated its vehicles to allow this. That means even if your iPhone runs iOS 26, your CarPlay screen won’t play videos — unless the manufacturer activates the feature.

Carmakers Are Blocking Apple’s Progress

This lack of cooperation isn’t new. Apple has been facing resistance from car manufacturers ever since it unveiled CarPlay Ultra, a next-generation system that takes over multiple in-car displays, including the speedometer and instrument cluster.

Manufacturers are hesitant to give Apple that much control over their infotainment systems.
For carmakers, in-car software has become a major source of profit — through subscriptions, app stores, and data services. Allowing Apple to take over means losing part of that control.

Currently, only Aston Martin has confirmed support for CarPlay Ultra, with Hyundai and Kia rumored to follow sometime in 2025.

The Workaround: Watch YouTube and Netflix with a Wireless Adapter

While waiting for official support, CarPlay enthusiasts are already finding ways around the restriction.
Some wireless CarPlay adapters, like the CANBUS BOX® sold on TheCarPlayer.com, allow users to install Android apps such as YouTube or Netflix directly on the original CarPlay screen.

These adapters not only enable wireless CarPlay, but also unlock entertainment features that aren’t normally available — all while keeping your car’s original system intact.

Other iOS 26 CarPlay Updates

Besides video support, iOS 26 also brings several other improvements to CarPlay, including:

• Widgets on the CarPlay dashboard

• Smart Display Zoom for automatic screen-size optimization

• Redesigned app icons for better readability

However, Apple still needs to improve how widgets work, especially on smaller screens where only one widget fits per page.

Final Thoughts

The ability to watch videos safely while parked could be a game-changer for long trips or when charging electric cars. But unless carmakers start enabling AirPlay video, this feature will remain locked for most users.

If you want to enjoy YouTube or Netflix on CarPlay today, check out the CANBUS BOX® on TheCarPlayer.com — a plug & play solution that lets you watch videos, stream apps, and enjoy full wireless CarPlay access.