Tesla drivers who own iPhones could soon have another option for their infotainment system, as the automaker is reportedly testing Apple CarPlay functionality internally. However, Tesla has not yet decided whether to roll it out to customers. This shift is particularly notable, given that Tesla has always focused on developing its own infotainment system, first introduced with the Model S.
CarPlay Classic, Not CarPlay Ultra
If Apple CarPlay makes it to Tesla’s giant touchscreen displays, it will reportedly appear as a window within the existing interface, rather than taking over the entire screen. Bloomberg reports that Tesla plans to use the standard version of CarPlay, known as CarPlay Classic, rather than the more advanced CarPlay Ultra, which integrates with multiple screens throughout the vehicle.
Currently, iPhone and Android users can connect to Tesla vehicles via Bluetooth for calling and audio streaming, but beyond that, there’s no way to mirror or control the content on their phones through the Tesla system. For navigation, users must rely on Tesla’s built-in map and routing features.
No Android Auto—Yet
Interestingly, the Bloomberg report also points out that there’s no sign of testing for Android Auto. Tesla may be rolling out CarPlay first, with Android Auto possibly added later. Or, the automaker could be focusing solely on CarPlay, given that Tesla’s data likely shows a higher preference for iPhones among its users. Tesla’s app, which is well-designed and popular among Tesla owners, also tracks user preferences, which may further suggest that Tesla is prioritizing Apple devices. Given that iPhones are often favored by wealthier consumers, this aligns with Tesla’s target market.
A Surprising Change of Heart
This potential move marks a surprising change for Tesla, especially considering the company’s long-standing resistance to Apple and its in-house infotainment software. CEO Elon Musk has been publicly critical of Apple in the past. For example, he claimed that Apple’s App Store policies are unfair and that the company’s practices hurt apps like X (formerly Twitter) and Grok from ranking highly. Tesla has also faced competition from Apple, which recruited Tesla talent for its now-defunct Project Titan car program.
Tesla isn’t the only automaker that has resisted smartphone mirroring. Rivian, for instance, has avoided integrating Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, preferring to differentiate itself with its own software. Rivian’s software chief has stated that the decision is more philosophical than technical.
Other Automakers Are Making Moves
On the legacy automaker side, General Motors (GM) recently made headlines by announcing that future models would not offer Android Auto or CarPlay. This shift, which applies to all of GM’s vehicles, is part of a broader push for greater control over the in-car experience. GM has already kept CarPlay and Android Auto out of most of its electric vehicles, citing concerns over data control.
Despite these moves, studies have consistently shown that consumers highly value CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Many buyers consider smartphone mirroring to be a must-have feature when shopping for a car. By adding CarPlay, Tesla could address this demand and potentially boost its sales, especially after recent reports of a slight dip in its numbers.
Will CarPlay Make It?
As with most things Tesla, we may not know for sure whether CarPlay will cut until it actually appears in a vehicle—likely through an over-the-air software update. Tesla’s ability to roll out features quickly means that the change could happen at any time—or never. So, for now, all we can do is wait and see.