Watch YouTube on CarPlay: iOS 26 Adds Video Streaming While Parked

Apple’s iOS 26 update brings one of the most anticipated upgrades to CarPlay users: AirPlay video streaming directly to your CarPlay screen — while parked.

Whether you’re charging your EV, waiting at the school pickup line, or just relaxing in your car, you can now watch YouTube on CarPlay, stream Apple TV+, and even mirror your iPhone screen for supported apps.

In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about CarPlay video while parked, which apps work (and don’t), and how to enable the feature. Plus, if your vehicle doesn’t support this feature yet, we’ll show you the best way to upgrade.

What’s New: CarPlay AirPlay Video in iOS 26

Starting with iOS 26, Apple enables AirPlay video mirroring in supported CarPlay systems — but only while your car is safely parked.

With this feature, you can:

• Stream YouTube videos to your car screen

• Watch Apple TV+ or Disney+ directly from your iPhone

• Mirror your iPhone display for supported video apps

• Enjoy larger playback controls, perfect for EV downtime

This update turns your vehicle into a mini entertainment hub — perfect for idle moments when driving isn't the priority.

Which Apps Work with CarPlay AirPlay?

Here’s a quick breakdown of popular apps and their compatibility:

If you’re wondering why Netflix doesn’t work, it’s due to strict DRM restrictions that prevent casting or mirroring from iPhones.

How to Watch Video on CarPlay When Parked

To use this feature:

1. Update your iPhone to iOS 26

2. Connect to CarPlay (wireless or wired)

3. Ensure your car is in PARK — video won’t play while moving

4. Swipe down on your iPhone > tap Screen Mirroring > choose your CarPlay display

5. Open YouTube or Apple TV+ and start watching

This uses AirPlay, so it's essentially screen mirroring rather than native app support — but it works smoothly on supported displays.

What If Your Car Doesn’t Support CarPlay Video?

If your vehicle doesn’t currently support AirPlay or CarPlay, you won’t see the screen mirroring option. But don’t worry — we’ve got the perfect upgrade.

✅ Add Full CarPlay + Video Support with Our Modules

At TheCarPlayer.com, we offer Apple CarPlay modules that retrofit your existing infotainment system — even in older vehicles — to bring modern features like:

• Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto

• AirPlay & screen mirroring support

• Rear camera integration

• Factory-style integration — no dashboard cutting required

👉 Browse Our CarPlay Modules Here

Whether you drive a BMW, Mercedes, Audi, or even a Bentley or Jeep — we likely have a plug-and-play solution for your car.

💡 Tip: If your car didn’t come with Apple CarPlay, our modules can enable AirPlay video mirroring, unlocking CarPlay video while parked — even in vehicles from 2010 to 2020.

Final Thoughts

Apple’s iOS 26 update finally brings something fun to the CarPlay experience: the ability to watch YouTube on CarPlay, mirror your iPhone screen, and enjoy videos in full size — all while safely parked.

If your current setup doesn’t support it, now is the perfect time to upgrade. With one of our OEM-style CarPlay modules, you’ll get access to all the latest features Apple has to offer — without buying a new car.

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Looking to upgrade your infotainment system and enjoy CarPlay AirPlay video today?

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