Apple’s long-anticipated CarPlay Ultra has officially arrived, marking a major evolution in the tech giant’s approach to in-car interfaces. Offering full-screen integration across all vehicle displays—from the instrument cluster to the head-up display and even passenger-side screens—CarPlay Ultra is the most immersive version of Apple’s in-car system to date. But while some automakers are racing to adopt it, BMW is not among them.

A spokesperson from BMW AG confirmed this week that “BMW currently has no plans to integrate Apple CarPlay Ultra”, reaffirming the company’s stance dating back to 2022, when Apple first unveiled the next-generation software. At that time, BMW was initially mentioned as a future partner, but the Munich-based marque has since backed away from that path.

CarPlay Ultra goes far beyond the traditional CarPlay experience, which is typically limited to the central infotainment screen. The upgraded system turns the entire digital cockpit into an Apple-driven environment—allowing drivers to control climate, media, and navigation entirely through Apple’s interface. Features like Siri voice commands, Apple Maps displayed directly in the speedometer, and customizable widgets are just the beginning. Aston Martin is leading the rollout, with Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis expected to follow closely.

So why the hesitation from BMW?

Rather than ceding control to Apple, BMW is doubling down on its proprietary operating system: iDrive X. This next-gen platform will debut in the upcoming BMW iX3 and serve as the digital backbone for all future Neue Klasse models. A key feature of iDrive X is the Panoramic Display, a cutting-edge projection system that stretches across the base of the windshield—designed to deliver key information in a minimalist, distraction-free way.

BMW’s strategy seems rooted in a desire for tighter brand integration and a more cohesive digital experience. While CarPlay Ultra offers a unified Apple-centric environment, BMW is prioritizing a native ecosystem that blends seamlessly with its design language and in-house tech innovations. As a result, support for third-party platforms like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will remain—but in a limited capacity, restricted to the central infotainment screen.

For BMW loyalists, this may be a disappointment, especially as competing brands embrace deeper Apple integration. But for BMW, the choice reflects a broader industry trend: the battle for digital control inside the car is just getting started—and automakers are no longer willing to hand over the keys so easily.

Source: BMW; Photo: Apple