CarPlay 2 stalls: Apple's ambitious in-car system delayed indefinitely

Apple's long-awaited CarPlay update, which promised to revolutionize in-car infotainment systems, has hit a speed bump. The tech giant has officially confirmed that CarPlay 2, first promised to launch in 2024, is delayed indefinitely.

CarPlay has been a very popular feature for iPhone users, mirroring their phone screens onto their car's dashboard displays. This allows for easy access to music, navigation, and other apps. CarPlay 2, however, aimed to be far more ambitious.

Similar to Google's Android Automotive, it would integrate with the vehicle's systems, providing control over functions like climate control, seat adjustments, and even the speedometer. This next-generation system was also intended to function partially independently of the iPhone, giving access to core car controls even without a phone connection.

The delay is a huge disappointment to many who were hoping to see Apple's take on a fully integrated in-car experience. Apple, in a statement, blamed the delay on ongoing collaboration with automakers, suggesting that the complexities of integrating with so many different vehicle systems have proven more challenging than anticipated.

Apple stays quiet about a revised launch date, but industry insiders speculate that the delay could be significant. The original 2024 target was announced back in 2022, and Apple had plenty of time to meet that goal. The fact that there's no new timeline hints at bigger problems or even a complete reassessment of the project.

The delay is unfortunate for Apple and it gives Google's Android Automotive a huge advantage. With CarPlay 2 sidelined for the foreseeable future, Android Automotive has an easy path to expand its partnerships with automakers and keep its leading position in the market.

Via