Apple is reportedly preparing a major shift in its CarPlay strategy by allowing external, voice-controlled AI chatbots to operate within the in-car infotainment system. The move could significantly expand how drivers interact with apps, navigation, and vehicle functions—without relying solely on Siri.
A Strategic Pivot Beyond Siri
For years, Siri has been the exclusive voice interface for Apple’s automotive platform. However, recent reports suggest Apple is exploring ways to let third-party AI assistants—including advanced conversational models—handle voice commands inside CarPlay. This would mark a notable departure from Apple’s traditionally closed ecosystem.
How External AI Chatbots Could Work in CarPlay
Under the reported plan, AI chatbots would integrate through approved APIs, enabling hands-free interactions such as messaging, route planning, media control, and contextual queries. Apple is expected to retain strict privacy and safety controls, ensuring that voice assistants operate without distracting drivers.
Pressure from Automakers and AI Competition
The change appears to be driven partly by automaker demand. Several car manufacturers are pushing for deeper control over the in-car software experience and want flexibility to integrate their own AI solutions. At the same time, rapid advancements from AI platforms like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Claude have raised expectations for more natural voice interactions.
Balancing Openness with Apple’s Privacy Focus
While Apple is considering broader AI access, it is unlikely to abandon its core principles. Any third-party chatbot would likely need to meet Apple’s strict data-handling, on-device processing, and security standards, especially given the safety-critical nature of in-car systems.
What This Means for Drivers
If implemented, drivers could benefit from smarter, more conversational voice experiences—from complex travel planning to real-time assistance—while keeping their hands on the wheel. The update could also accelerate innovation in automotive AI, making CarPlay more competitive against Android Automotive.
Timeline Still Unclear
Apple has not officially confirmed the report, and no launch timeline has been disclosed. However, industry observers believe more details could emerge at a future WWDC event, where Apple traditionally outlines major software platform changes.