Why You'll Want To Update To IOS 26 Before Your Next Road Trip

You've finally done it — bags are packed, snacks secured, and the playlist is hopping. The long-awaited vacation has finally gotten out of the group chat and onto the open road. But before you leave the driveway, it's important to make sure your phone is up to date, especially if you're an iPhone user. With iOS 26, Apple's CarPlay has undergone a major upgrade, turning your iPhone into a smarter co-pilot that keeps navigation, entertainment, and communication seamlessly at your fingertips.

New features include Live Activities, improved call and message notifications, and more detailed customizations — all designed to make driving safer and less distracting. Now you can find widgets like the iPhone's calendar, weather, and music. It also allows you to have your favorite apps at your fingertips, even if there is no CarPlay-specific version of the app. You can even stream videos through AirPlay while parked. But once you hit the road, navigation and notifications have been updated to be cleaner and less distracting, so you can focus on the drive. For longer drives, Vehicle Motion Cues, a hidden iPhone feature, can stop car sickness altogether. So with smoother app integration, a more responsive interface, and customizable features, CarPlay now feels faster, smarter, and truly designed to support every part of your trip.

iOS 26 brings updates that help your road trip flow more smoothly and keep distractions to a minimum. Refined navigation tools help you stay on course and update directions in real time. Notifications from calls and texts also now appear subtly at the bottom of the screen, minimizing distractions so you can keep your eyes on the road, instead of the screen. CarPlay also supports Live Activities, letting you track real-time updates like flight statuses or sports scores right from your dashboard, so you can stay on top of plans while on the move. With these features, you can quickly glance at what's important without fumbling through apps or losing focus, making even longer drives feel more organized and less stressful.

With ever-changing technology in our cars, from planning road trips with AI to the latest iPhone updates to CarPlay, it's easy to stay connected while on the road. These new updates with iOS 26 are designed with safety in mind, so while driving, your focus can be on the road and not your phone.