After years of keeping its infotainment system closed off to outside apps, Tesla‘s now making a major shift. The company is actively developing Apple CarPlay integration for its vehicles. According to Bloomberg and MacRumors, this feature is currently in testing. Tesla plans to roll it out during the Holiday software update in December 2025.
Tesla ends years of closed-off infotainment by developing Apple CarPlay integration, currently testing the feature for December 2025 release.
This move marks a dramatic change in Tesla’s approach. For years, the company maintained an entirely proprietary infotainment system. Tesla didn’t allow third-party apps or outside access. Owners who wanted Apple CarPlay had to use third-party solutions. CarPlay became one of the most requested features from Tesla buyers.
The CarPlay version coming to Tesla vehicles will be the standard wireless version. This isn’t CarPlay Ultra, which would replace Tesla’s entire interface. Instead, the new feature will work alongside Tesla’s native system in a windowed setup. This means Tesla’s own piloting and controls stay visible on the main display. There’s no evidence that wired CarPlay support is being added.
Tesla’s decision likely comes from business reasons. Reports suggest that some buyers abandoned Tesla vehicles because CarPlay wasn’t available. The company wants to compete with traditional luxury car makers that already offer CarPlay. By adding this feature, Tesla may attract more customers who expect standard infotainment options. CarPlay support is reportedly cited by prospective buyers as a key factor influencing their vehicle purchase decisions.
The Premium Connectivity subscription will still matter for certain features. Sentry Mode live streaming and the mobile app Dashcam Viewer will still require Premium Connectivity. However, core entertainment features like messaging and route guidance will work through CarPlay without a subscription.
Not all Tesla owners are excited about this change. Some have expressed concerns about the integration. Others worry it might distract drivers. There’s also speculation that accelerated North American sourcing requirements influenced the timing.
The integration is straightforward from a technical standpoint. Wireless CarPlay will eliminate the need for third-party adapters. Owners will get standard CarPlay features including messaging, route guidance, and entertainment options. Currently, Tesla’s navigation system relies on MapBox for routing and uses Google Maps only as a background layer.
This shift shows Tesla’s willingness to adjust its strategy after years of resisting outside integrations. The company collected enough vehicle data to make this decision. Now, Tesla’s preparing to welcome Apple’s technology into its traditionally closed ecosystem.