According toBloomberg NewsApple plans to allow third-party voice-controlled AI applications (such as OpenAI ChatGPT or Google Gemini) to integrate into the in-vehicle system in future CarPlay updates. This means developers will be able to create custom AI voice interfaces for CarPlay, giving drivers a smarter conversational partner during long journeys.
Allow third-party AI, but it cannot replace the functions of the buttons on the steering wheel.
This change will allow companies like OpenAI and Google to launch AI applications that support the CarPlay interface. Previously, if a driver wanted to use Gemini in their car, they typically had to connect their phone via Bluetooth and manually activate voice mode on the phone—a cumbersome and unsafe process. In the near future, these apps are expected to appear directly on the CarPlay dashboard.
However, Apple's openness is clearly conditional. The report points out that third-party AI assistants will face two key limitations:
• It cannot replace the physical Siri button on the steering wheel:The voice activation button on the steering wheel (or a long press of the Home button on the screen) remains exclusive to Siri. Developers cannot reassign this button to ChatGPT or other AI applications.
• Disable background wake word:You can't simply say "Hey Google" or "Hey ChatGPT" while driving to activate these AI apps. Drivers must manually tap the app icon on the CarPlay interface to begin a voice conversation with the AI.
In other words, Siri remains the default assistant responsible for controlling vehicle hardware (such as adjusting the air conditioning), playing music, and navigating; while third-party AI applications are positioned as auxiliary roles for "handling complex, open-ended questions and answers."
The delicate relationship between Siri and Gemini
Interestingly, Apple and Google just recently announced...Reaching cooperationThe new version of Siri will incorporate the Google Gemini model to enhance its understanding capabilities. This shows that Apple's strategy is "two-pronged": on the one hand, it makes Siri smarter by integrating Gemini, and on the other hand, it allows Gemini to exist as a standalone app in the CarPlay interface to meet the needs of heavy users.
Rumors suggest that Apple hopes to transform Siri into a more conversational chatbot. However, until then, allowing third-party AI applications to integrate with CarPlay appears to be a transitional solution.
