Apple gave millions of drivers a video upgrade but you'll probably never be able to use it
After first announcing the feature back in 2025, Apple has finally brought video playback to CarPlay, but there is a major catch that could stop millions of users from gaining access to the upgrade.
When Apple first announced that iPhone owners would eventually be able to send video to their vehicle’s CarPlay display using AirPlay, it sounded like a significant change for the platform.
This is due to the fact that it had previously been restricted to music, navigation, messages and other driving-friendly features, although it would only be able to use video when safely parked.
However, despite the feature being quietly rolled out, many users have questioned whether it exists at all.
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On social media, one person queried whether the upgrade ever saw the light of day, writing on Reddit: “Did this ever ship? I have a vague memory of there being some excitement about this... and then nothing. I've got stock CarPlay in my 2019 Kia Sorento with my phone running iOS 27.0.1 and I can't get it to work.”
Another user replied: “I’m pretty sure there is zero vehicle support for it so far. It’ll probably take a while for any to get on board if at all.”
And a third explained: “It requires an update to your vehicle’s infotainment system, and so far (as far as I’m aware anyway) no manufacturers have updated to support it. So it’s in iOS, but not in any cars yet.”
Does CarPlay now include video playback?
The fact is that the feature did launch but if you have an older car with CarPlay, you shouldn’t expect an iOS update to unlock it.
This appears to be whether the confusion lies because, while many cars are equipped with CarPlay, only a select few of those will be able to access the upgrade.
Your iPhone can be running the latest version of iOS, your car can have a perfectly functional CarPlay system and your vehicle can still be unable to play video through it.
The hardware and software inside the car have to be designed to support Apple’s new video functionality.
Apple itself has explained the confusion, pointing out on its website that in order to use video playback then you’ll need to make sure support is integrated ‘for CarPlay with AirPlay video to enable this feature in your car’.
This means that it really depends on your car rather than your iOS system, so if you can’t find the feature, it doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist - your car just might not be compatible.