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7 Must-Know iOS 18 CarPlay Features That Will Turn Your iPhone into the Ultimate Road Safety Tool
When Apple announced iOS 18, the spotlight was on a slew of flashy features, such as the Passwords app, a revamped Control Center, and an even more personalized home screen experience.
But, as someone who’s spent years diving deep into Apple’s ecosystem, I can tell you that one of the most exciting—and perhaps underappreciated—updates came to CarPlay.
Although Apple didn’t highlight it during its launch event, iOS 18 introduced a series of subtle yet impactful enhancements to its in-car interface.
I’ll quickly go over 7 new CarPlay features in iOS 18 that might seem simple but make a big difference in making daily drives more enjoyable, particularly for users who rely on accessibility features. Let’s get started.
Color Filters
Let’s start with Color Filters. Apple’s commitment to accessibility is well-documented, and iOS 18 continues this tradition by expanding on CarPlay’s features for those with visual impairments.
The new Color Filters are particularly intriguing. Essentially, they allow you to tint the entire CarPlay interface with a color of your choice—red/green, green/red, or blue/yellow—depending on your specific needs.
There’s also a grayscale option for those who prefer a monochrome look. What’s even more impressive is that you can adjust the intensity of these filters, creating a personalized visual experience that feels more inclusive.
Bold Text
Accessibility doesn’t stop there. The ability to bold text across the CarPlay interface is another subtle change that packs a punch.
For those of us who spend a lot of time behind the wheel, squinting at the screen is the last thing we need.
With bold text, everything becomes clearer, making it easier to read directions or messages without taking your eyes off the road for too long.
Voice Control
Voice Control in CarPlay is another new feature in iOS 18 that feels like it’s been tailor-made for those with motor or physical impairments.
Imagine navigating CarPlay without having to fiddle with the screen or even summon Siri. Just say commands like “Open Maps” or “Go Home,” and CarPlay responds instantly.
This hands-free control is a game-changer, particularly in situations where safety and convenience are paramount.
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It’s not just about accessibility; it’s about making the driving experience smoother and less distracting for everyone.
Sound Recognition
For those with hearing impairments, the new Sound Recognition feature is a thoughtful addition. Imagine driving down a busy street and missing a crucial honk or siren because of hearing difficulties.
Now, with iOS 18, CarPlay can alert you to these sounds, keeping you always aware of your surroundings.
It’s one of those features that might not seem groundbreaking at first glance, but it could genuinely make a life-or-death difference.
New Siri Design
Siri also got a bit of a facelift in iOS 18, particularly in how she interacts with CarPlay. While the core functionality remains the same, the visual updates are a nice touch.
For example, when asking for sports scores, Siri now provides a richer, more graphic display that includes team logos and current scores.
It’s a small change, but it makes the interaction feel more polished and engaging.
Silent Mode
With the new Silent Mode feature in iOS 18, CarPlay can now automatically switch your iPhone’s silent mode on or off whenever you’re using CarPlay.
This convenient setting allows you to easily mute system notifications and app alerts, ensuring a quieter driving experience while your phone is connected.
Of course, there are also some cosmetic updates, like new wallpapers and a refreshed Settings app interface.
These might not change how you use CarPlay, but they do add a layer of personalization that many users will appreciate.
Contact Photos in Messages
Speaking of personalization, the addition of contact photos in the Messages app for CarPlay is another subtle yet effective update. It makes conversations more visual and easier to navigate at a glance.
One feature that caught my eye—perhaps because it addresses a long-standing annoyance—is the ability to record videos without stopping audio playback.
It’s one of those quality-of-life improvements that will resonate with anyone who’s tried to capture a moment on video only to lose their music or podcast in the process.
The Bottom Line
Lastly, while we’re all eagerly waiting for the next generation of CarPlay, these updates in iOS 18 are more than just placeholders.
They show Apple’s continued commitment to refining and enhancing the CarPlay experience, even as we anticipate bigger changes on the horizon.
Whether you’re a daily commuter or just an occasional driver, these small but meaningful updates make CarPlay in iOS 18 an even more essential part of your driving routine.