Top 5 Apps That Should Work With Apple CarPlay But Don't

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Apple's CarPlay has become one of the most convenient and safe ways to access your iPhone screen and personal information while driving. With the release of iOS 26, Apple significantly enhanced both the CarPlay and CarPlay Ultra experiences. The updates include features like Liquid Glass, widget support, and several useful tweaks. For example, users can now unpin chats from iMessage and receive banner notifications for incoming calls instead of having the call take over the entire display.

Despite these improvements, Apple maintains strict control over which apps are available on the CarPlay platform. While some developers may find it challenging to adapt their software for a driving experience, there is a growing demand for popular apps that could enhance the user experience on CarPlay. Apps like Netflix, TikTok, ChatGPT, Starbucks, and more are not currently available but could offer significant value if integrated properly.

Why These Apps Should Work with CarPlay

1. Netflix

Although no one should be watching TV while driving, streaming platforms like Netflix should be accessible on CarPlay when the vehicle is parked. Tesla, for instance, allows users to watch Netflix content in their car, but only when the vehicle is stationary. This feature is ideal for situations like waiting for someone, being on a ferry, or simply wanting to relax in the car.

While it’s unclear whether Apple will allow video streaming platforms to add their apps to CarPlay, it’s something worth considering. A larger display in the car could provide a better viewing experience for users who aren’t driving. Additionally, other platforms like Amazon Prime, YouTube, Disney+, Apple TV, and HBO Max could also benefit from this feature.

Note that although these apps don’t have native dashboard icons, users can still play them on CarPlay using the "video in the car" feature introduced in iOS 26. Simply launch the app on your iPhone, play a video, and project it onto the car’s screen when the vehicle is parked.

2. ChatGPT

OpenAI's ChatGPT has made a significant impact in recent years as an AI chatbot that helps with data organization, answering questions, creating images, practicing languages, and even casual conversation. While OpenAI doesn’t offer a dedicated ChatGPT app for CarPlay, iOS 26 added widget support. This means users with ChatGPT on their iPhones can add a widget and use its voice mode to interact with the AI model while driving.

Previously, users had to create shortcuts or start Conversation Mode before driving, but Apple has simplified the process. Although the experience isn't as complete as what you can get on the web or in the app, drivers can now tap into the model’s conversational capabilities via the infotainment display. A full ChatGPT experience would be a welcome addition for users.

3. Subway Surfers

CarPlay currently does not allow users to install games, which is a missed opportunity. Apple could leverage this to grow its Apple Arcade subscription. Similar to streaming platforms, the ability to play games should be limited to when the vehicle is safely parked. If Google can provide touch-screen games on Android Auto via GameSnacks, why not Apple?

Popular games like "Angry Birds," "2048," and "Temple Run" could be available on CarPlay. Many of these games are already on airplane displays, making them easy to port. Even with basic infotainment panels, users could enjoy these games whenever they want. While it’s uncertain if Apple will add games to CarPlay, the introduction of AirPlay for videos suggests that games might be next.

4. Starbucks

Over the past few years, CarPlay has integrated delivery apps like DoorDash, and iOS 26 improved this experience with Live Activities that let drivers track their orders without taking their eyes off the road. However, one popular app that should work with CarPlay but doesn’t is Starbucks.

Being able to order coffee on the go is a convenience many people appreciate. Currently, the only way to do this is by creating a shortcut or using the iPhone app before driving. Users can create a Siri Shortcut for quick ordering and then pay with Apple Pay at the drive-thru.

If Starbucks offered a native experience, it could integrate more seamlessly with Siri or allow users to order their favorite drink with just a few taps. Since Apple allows apps like DoorDash to work this way, it’s possible that Starbucks could be next.

5. TikTok

CarPlay currently does not support social media apps, but similar to streaming platforms and games, Apple could make them available if the user is parked. After all, no one needs the distraction of TikTok or Facebook while driving. Some apps, like X, could be especially useful for checking live event notifications.

For Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok, companies could offer these apps while the driver is parked, allowing users to discover the latest trends, follow creators, and stay informed about news. These features could add value to the CarPlay experience.

These are just a few of the most popular iPhone apps that we use every day, but unfortunately, we can’t use them with CarPlay. While Apple has made some of them available thanks to widget support, a proper version could unlock new possibilities for drivers.