Aston Martin has announced it will bring the new generation of iPhone connectivity system, known as Apple CarPlay Ultra, to its DBX SUV and sports car models. The British brand is the first manufacturer in the world to introduce the technology, which further integrates customers' iPhones with the car's built-in infotainment systems.
What's CarPlay Ultra when it's at home?
Apple CarPlay Ultra is a development of the existing Apple CarPlay technology that is already offered in many cars across the market and allows access to the iPhone's applications and features. But the new Ultra version builds upon the existing system, integrating further with the car's digital instrument display and allowing greater adaptations.
Working with Apple, Aston Martin has developed the system to blend seamlessly with its own technology and controls, allowing drivers to customise their multi-screen layouts that integrate CarPlay applications with Aston's proprietary technology. That means drivers can tailor their instrument cluster themes, colours and wallpapers, while also accessing radio and climate controls from within the CarPlay system.
Drivers can also add widgets powered by their iPhone that fit exactly into the car's 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, or even the instrument display.
When will it be available in the Astons?
The system is housed completely in the touchscreen display, and is launching today (May 15, 2025) in the USA and Canada on the DBX SUV and Aston Martin's core sports cars, the Vantage, DB12 and Vanquish. Other markets will get the technology in the next 12 months, while owners of existing vehicles will be offered the system as an update through Aston Martin's dealer network.
To run the system, owners will need an iPhone 12 or later, running iOS 18.54 or later.
What have Apple and Aston Martin said about it?
“Aston Martin is delighted to have collaborated with Apple, and to be first to launch CarPlay Ultra,” said Aston Martin's CEO, Adrian Hallmark. “As a brand, our focus on world-leading performance goes beyond the traditional attributes associated with powertrains, dynamic performance and craftsmanship.
“The integration of CarPlay Ultra is a clear example of the dedication to collaborate with the best companies in the world to bring unique experiences and in-vehicle capabilities to our customers. Building on our in-house state-of-the-art infotainment system, CarPlay Ultra will provide additional functionality and personalisation opportunities which place Aston Martin at the forefront of infotainment in the sector.”
Meanwhile Apple's vice-president of worldwide product marketing, Bob Borchers, said: “iPhone users love CarPlay and it has changed the way people interact with their vehicles. With CarPlay Ultra, together with automakers we are reimagining the in-car experience and making it even more unified and consistent. The next generation of CarPlay gives drivers a smarter, safer way to use their iPhone in the car, deeply integrating with the vehicle while maintaining the very best of the automaker. We are thrilled to begin rolling out CarPlay Ultra with Aston Martin, with more manufacturers to come.”