Despite earlier speculation that Tesla’s efforts to integrate Apple CarPlay into its vehicles had stalled, recent reports indicate that the company’s software teams are still actively working on the feature.
CarPlay Development Continues Amidst Owner Demand
The possibility of Tesla vehicles supporting Apple CarPlay, a feature long requested by many owners, initially gained traction in November. A report from Bloomberg at the time suggested that the electric automaker was testing the integration within its cars, a significant move given Tesla’s historical preference for its proprietary in-car software.
While public updates on the progress have been scarce since then, a new report from Bloomberg writer Mark Gurman indicates that CarPlay is “still in the works” at Tesla. Gurman also suggested that more concrete information regarding its development could be released soon.
Why Tesla May Be Pursuing CarPlay Integration
The integration of Apple CarPlay could be a strategic move for Tesla, especially considering market data. A study by McKinsey & Co. highlighted that nearly a third of car buyers view the absence of CarPlay as a deal-breaker. This factor, coupled with Tesla’s recent loss of a major consumer advantage – the $7,500 EV tax credit – may be driving the company to consider third-party interface support.
For many Tesla owners, familiarity and comfort with the CarPlay interface, honed over years of use in other vehicles, is a significant draw. While Tesla’s own infotainment system is widely praised for its functionality and user experience, the established ecosystem of CarPlay offers a familiar and often deeply integrated experience for users.
Owner Perspectives on CarPlay in Teslas
Some Tesla owners, including the original author, find the native Tesla system to be superior and see less of a personal need for CarPlay. However, there is a widespread appreciation for CarPlay’s capabilities when implemented well in compatible vehicles.
A key advantage often cited for CarPlay is its seamless integration for reading and responding to text messages, an area where some users feel Tesla’s implementation, while functional, could be more user-friendly. The author suggests that if Tesla can deliver a CarPlay experience as smooth as its own UI, it could indeed be a valuable addition, even if personal preference leans towards the native system.
The original article was published on February 3, 2026, by Joey Klender.