Apple CarPlay to Add ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini in iOS 26.4

Siri is about to share the dashboard.

Apple’s CarPlay will soon integrate ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini, ending Siri’s long-standing role as the platform’s only in-car AI assistant. According to MacRumors, the shift is tied to an upcoming iOS 26.4 update, one that is shaping up to feel more like a major operating system overhaul than a routine refresh.

For the first time, drivers will be able to tap into powerful third-party AI tools directly from their vehicle’s infotainment system.

The era of AI-powered driving

In recent years, significant technology — from self-driving cars like Tesla to AI assistants embedded in CarPlay — has been integrated into vehicles to make driving more comfortable. 

The integration of ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini is more than a simple upgrade in technology. Instead, the move marks a shift in how AI-powered driving operates, allowing drivers to leverage powerful third-party AI tools directly in their vehicles. 

The conversational style of these tools can help users get answers faster when Siri comes up short. For example, drivers could compare restaurants by reviews and distance using voice prompts.

Caveats to know

According to MacRumors, Apple updated its CarPlay Developer Guide to reflect the integration, but the changes include specific caveats that users and developers must know.

The first is that Siri will remain the primary AI assistant.

Since it’s Apple’s own AI tool, it makes sense to leave it as the default AI tool for CarPlay. TechRadar also noted that these third-party apps won’t let you control your car functions the way Siri does. There has been a planned upgrade to Siri, but while the last expected rollout was iOS 26.4, there is currently no confirmation that it will arrive with this update.

The second caveat is that third-party AI platforms must adapt their apps to run within the unique CarPlay environment.

Apple is very strict with the apps it permits, and this integration is no exception. As a result, many features on tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini may be disabled to comply with strict safety regulations, such as the new interface’s support for voice-only conversations, which blocks distracting text controls.

Finally, unlike Siri, which can be triggered with its “Hey Siri” wake command, these apps won’t be. Users will have to manually open the app before they can communicate with it using their voice.

For anyone who has been in the Apple ecosystem for some time, some of these caveats shouldn’t be a surprise given how Apple operates.

What’s coming next?

iOS 26.4 will be out in a few weeks, but if you would love to try out this experience on CarPlay now, you will need to get the beta release. To join Apple’s beta program, sign in with your Apple ID on Apple’s beta page.

Also read: An Uber AI cart assistant could make grocery shopping easier by suggesting items and managing a running list.

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