Tesla tests Apple CarPlay: a turning point for infotainment.
Bloomberg reports that Tesla is internally testing Apple CarPlay, most likely in windowed mode rather than full-screen. Android Auto was not mentioned; the feature may be rolled out via OTA or may not appear at all.
According to Bloomberg (reported by Car and Driver), Tesla is internally testing Apple CarPlay support on its central infotainment system. This would be a major change, as the company has long stuck with its own interface and has not integrated phone mirroring. Android Auto is not mentioned in the report.
Window-based CarPlay, not CarPlay Ultra.
If commercialized, Tesla's CarPlay is expected to display in a window within the large touchscreen, rather than replacing the entire car interface. Bloomberg notes that Tesla is testing "pure" CarPlay, not CarPlay Ultra – the version that can control the interface and functions across multiple screens in the car.
Currently, iOS and Android users on Teslas can only make calls and play music via Bluetooth; navigating the large-screen map requires using the car's built-in system. The addition of CarPlay, if it happens, would open up more options for controlling and displaying familiar apps from the iPhone.
An unexpected turning point seen from the Tesla–Apple perspective.
This move is noteworthy because Tesla, and especially CEO Elon Musk, have a history of strained relations with Apple. Apple previously poached many Tesla employees for its Project Titan (now discontinued) vehicle project, while Musk publicly criticized Apple's App Store policies. Coupled with Tesla's focus on controlling the internal software experience, its consideration of CarPlay is all the more surprising.
Android Auto is absent, and iOS is likely to be prioritized.
Bloomberg did not report similar testing for Android Auto. It's possible Tesla tested iOS first – or only considered CarPlay. According to Car and Driver's analysis based on the report, Tesla has user ecosystem data through its mobile app. Apple devices are also popular among high-income consumers, which is believed to align with Tesla's customer base.
Industry landscape: Rivian and GM go their separate ways.
Tesla is not alone in the "software autonomy" trend. Rivian also avoids integrating phone mirroring, viewing it as a strategic differentiator rather than a technical barrier. On the traditional side, GM has stated that future models – regardless of powertrain – will not support CarPlay or Android Auto (having previously limited this on most electric vehicles). The reasons often cited are data control and user experience.
Market demand: why CarPlay is important
Numerous studies (cited in this article) show that CarPlay/Android Auto is among the top criteria when car buyers consider their options, and many will rule out models lacking phone mirroring support. Bloomberg suggests that adding CarPlay could be a way for Tesla to reverse its recent sales decline.
When will it be available on Tesla vehicles?
As is often the case with Tesla rumors, there's no timeline or confirmation of rollout to customers. The advantage of over-the-air (OTA) updates means the feature could appear at any time – or not at all.
A quick summary of smartphone-mirroring support status.
| Company | Status | Source notes |
|---|---|---|
| Renault | Internal testing of CarPlay | CarPlay in windowed mode; Android Auto not mentioned; implementation not yet decided. |
| Rivian | Not integrated | The reason is philosophical: to stand out with our own software. |
| GM | Removing CarPlay/Android Auto from future vehicles. | Previously, this was removed from most EVs; the goal was to control data and enhance the user experience. |
Technical Corner for Tesla Users
- If implemented, CarPlay would likely function as an “app” within the Tesla interface, without deeply interfering with the vehicle's control layers.
- Navigation, calling, and texting via CarPlay will add options alongside Tesla's native suite of apps.
- OTA allows for phased expansion of support coverage, which may vary between vehicle models and regions.
Note: All information above is compiled from a Bloomberg report cited by Car and Driver; Tesla has not confirmed the timing or scope of the rollout.
