Apple to open CarPlay to third-party AI apps like ChatGPT, Gemini, and others

Apple CarPlay

• Apple to allow third-party AI voice apps in CarPlay alongside Siri
• Drivers must manually open AI apps; Siri remains the default assistant
• Third-party AI apps can't use Siri button or custom wake words in CarPlay

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Apple is preparing to loosen its grip on CarPlay by allowing third-party AI apps to offer voice-based experiences alongside Siri, according to a report from Bloomberg. The move would mark a significant shift for Apple’s in-car platform, which has so far relied almost entirely on Siri for voice interactions.

At present, Siri is the default assistant for tasks such as playing music, sending messages, and getting directions while using CarPlay. Under the planned changes, developers would be able to bring voice-enabled AI apps into CarPlay, opening the door for services like OpenAI’s ChatGPT or Google’s Gemini to handle more open-ended or conversational requests that Siri often struggles with.

In practical terms, this could make long drives more interactive. Instead of relying solely on Siri’s relatively narrow command set, drivers could ask AI apps broader questions, brainstorm ideas, or have extended conversations, all without picking up their phone.

That said, Apple is not handing over the keys entirely. Bloomberg reports that third-party AI apps will not be able to replace Siri as the system-wide assistant. They will not be allowed to hijack the Siri button in the CarPlay interface, nor will they be able to use their own wake words such as “Hey Google”. To use a third-party AI assistant, drivers would need to manually open the relevant app first.

This limitation may reduce how useful these apps feel compared to Siri, particularly for hands-free use. However, it reflects Apple’s long-standing approach to CarPlay: tightly controlling the core experience while allowing limited flexibility around the edges. Apple is likely betting that Siri will eventually become capable enough that most users will prefer it over alternatives.

The timing is notable. Apple and Google recently announced that Gemini will power future versions of Siri and Apple Foundation Models, the underlying technology behind Apple Intelligence. Apple’s revamped Siri, first shown alongside Apple Intelligence in 2024, is designed to take actions across apps, understand on-screen context, and respond more conversationally — capabilities that Google’s Gemini already offers today.

Reports suggest Apple ultimately wants to transform Siri into a full conversational chatbot, potentially using Gemini models to get there. If that vision materialises, a smarter, more capable Siri would be a natural fit for CarPlay, reducing the need for third-party assistants in the first place.