Apple is getting ready to roll out iOS 26.2, and one of the biggest highlights is the upgrade to CarPlay. In this update, CarPlay receives two major new features: the first-ever Widgets designed for CarPlay and an upgraded Messages app experience. Apple has also improved core apps like Apple Music and Podcasts, giving drivers a smoother, more modern, and more personalized CarPlay dashboard.
iOS 26.2 Release Date
Apple has not officially announced the public release date yet, but based on the current beta cycle, iOS 26.2 is expected to launch in early to mid-December 2025. Apple typically releases minor “point” updates shortly after the second or third beta, especially when major features—like CarPlay improvements—are involved. If Apple follows its usual schedule, users can expect the official rollout within the next few weeks.
2025 Best MagSafe Case for iPhone 17 Pro Max
iOS 26.2 CarPlay Update: What’s New
iOS 26.2 brings two standout upgrades to CarPlay, improving both convenience and safety while driving.
1.More Widget Stacks Now Visible on the Screen
According to Tom Warren from The Verge, some users are now seeing up to three widget stacks displayed on CarPlay after updating to iOS 26.2. This change allows the screen to show more information at once—such as music, weather, reminders, or upcoming events—without switching apps, giving drivers quicker access to important details.
However, other users reported that they did not receive this change, suggesting that the new layout may not be available for all car models yet. Still, for vehicles that do support it, having more widget stacks means higher information density and better efficiency, making the CarPlay experience feel more modern and more practical during everyday driving.
2. Messages ‘Pinned Conversations’ Setting
When iOS 26 was released, CarPlay’s Messages app gained support for quick replies and pinned conversations. However, on smaller car screens, pinned chats could sometimes block other information, affecting overall readability.
With iOS 26.2, Apple added a new toggle setting that allows users to turn off pinned conversations directly in the CarPlay Settings app. Drivers can now choose whether to enable or disable this feature based on their preferences, giving them full control over the messaging layout and improving the overall in-car experience.
Conclusion
iOS 26.2 may seem like a minor update by version number, but its CarPlay enhancements are a big step forward. With more widget stacks for higher information density and the new toggle for Messages’ pinned conversations, drivers gain a safer, more customizable, and efficient in-car experience. Combined with improvements to Apple Music, Podcasts, and other core apps, iOS 26.2 makes CarPlay smarter and more user-friendly. For drivers looking to get the most out of their CarPlay dashboard, this update is a welcome upgrade.
