Tesla Finally Gives In! Apple CarPlay Enters Beta Testing, Likely to Launch in Coming Months

Tesla Finally Gives In! Apple CarPlay Enters Beta Testing, Likely to Launch in Coming Months

November 14, 2025 – According to The Verge, Tesla is advancing its Apple CarPlay integration efforts, with the feature now in beta testing and expected to officially roll out in the coming months.

For years, Tesla has relied on its in-house infotainment system, integrating core functions like vehicle controls, navigation, and entertainment, making it one of the few automakers not to support Apple CarPlay. As an industry-standard feature, CarPlay enables seamless iPhone app projection onto the car’s display, and its absence has reportedly led some Apple ecosystem users to avoid Tesla, becoming a potential factor affecting sales.

This time, Tesla has finally relented, though the integration approach differs from most vehicles. Reports indicate CarPlay will appear as a "standalone window" within Tesla’s existing interface rather than a full-screen replacement. It will only support the standard wireless version of CarPlay, with no compatibility for the newly launched CarPlay Ultra. This design aims to meet user demand for CarPlay while preserving Tesla’s core in-house system experience.

The upgrade is seen as a strategic move to boost sales amid intensifying competition in the electric vehicle market. As consumers increasingly prioritize ecosystem compatibility, Tesla’s previous lack of CarPlay had become a growing concern. Industry analysts suggest that while Tesla’s compromise is belated, it could attract a significant number of Apple ecosystem users and expand market share. Tesla has not yet confirmed a specific launch date, only stating that the release plan remains under review, with a possible delay.