Apple CarPlay Gets Video in iOS 26, But One Feature Is Missing

New Features in iOS 26 for CarPlay

Apple has rolled out updates to its CarPlay system with the latest release of iOS 26. This update introduces several new features, including the ability to play videos on a car's display. However, there are specific restrictions in place to ensure driver safety. The video playback is only allowed when the car is in park; it cannot be used while driving. This means that even if you're making a FaceTime call, you can't watch the video while the vehicle is in motion.

With these updates, drivers now have the option to select the Apple TV app through the CarPlay interface and watch videos. This includes using the touchscreen to pause, change episodes, and access show information. However, during a FaceTime call while driving, only audio will be available. You won't be able to see the other person, and they won't see you either. Apple has made it clear that FaceTime video calls are not supported through CarPlay, despite some users reporting that they could briefly view FaceTime videos when iOS 26 was first launched.

Why FaceTime Doesn't Support Video Calls

Apple has decided not to support video calls during FaceTime for safety reasons. Distracted driving is a significant concern, as looking at the screen while driving can take your attention away from the road. According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 3,275 people were killed due to distracted driving in 2023. The NHTSA considers talking on the phone as a form of distracted driving, which would include FaceTime calls.

In addition to safety concerns, Apple must also consider state laws regarding video use in cars. Several states, such as Alabama, Arizona, Colorado, Texas, Ohio, and Wyoming, prohibit drivers from using video screens, with exceptions for GPS navigation and camera systems. While all 50 states have some form of law regarding video use by drivers, the specifics vary from state to state.

There is also a psychological aspect to this decision. The human brain isn't very good at multitasking, and trying to do so can lead to poorer memory performance, higher stress levels, and increased distractions. Combining a FaceTime video call with driving could significantly impair a driver's ability to focus on the road.

The Future of CarPlay and FaceTime

Apple does not have full control over whether you can access all FaceTime and video features in your specific vehicle. While iOS 26 offers new options, it's ultimately up to car manufacturers to decide what their vehicles will support. Even if CarPlay allows video playback while parked, your car may not have this capability, likely due to the same safety concerns mentioned earlier.

Despite the updates in iOS 26, the future of CarPlay remains uncertain. Many cars are moving away from Apple CarPlay in favor of their own internal systems. While your current vehicle may support CarPlay FaceTime, a new car you purchase in the future might not have CarPlay compatibility at all.

Regardless of its future, CarPlay is still available today. With the iOS 26 updates to video capabilities, Apple's mission with CarPlay remains the same as when it was first introduced: to make life easier for drivers while minimizing distractions.