Tesla Moves to Add Apple CarPlay in Major Software Shift
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Tesla is preparing to bring Apple CarPlay to its electric vehicles, according to new reporting, signaling a major reversal for a company that has long refused to adopt third-party infotainment systems. The move would give Tesla drivers access to familiar iPhone features such as navigation, messaging and music within the vehicle’s display—something rival automakers have offered for years.
Sources say Tesla is working toward a rollout in the coming months, though the timeline isn’t guaranteed and plans could still shift. Early indications suggest Tesla will keep CarPlay inside a dedicated window within its own interface rather than allowing it to take over the full screen, preserving the company’s tightly controlled software experience.
The shift comes as pressure intensifies from competitors like Ford, GM and Hyundai, all of which have leaned heavily on CarPlay and Android Auto as customer expectations rise. Tesla has gradually opened its ecosystem—recently adding Apple Music—while pushing its proprietary tools such as navigation, entertainment apps and Elon Musk’s Grok chatbot. Neither Tesla nor Apple has commented on the reported plans.
