- Patent presentations suggest that Apple is working on cruise control solutions
- Updates seeks to refine cruise control interfaces
- Apple continues to develop Carplay Ultra, despite the resistance of car manufacturers
Apple recently showed its Apple Carplay Ultra software in a link with Aston Martin, which has become the first and only automotive manufacturer to offer the system so far.
In the preparation of the most global automotive brands that adopt the innovation of information and entertainment, which sees that the Carplay environment extends from the information and entertainment screen to digital screens and HUD, Apple is busy refining its technology in the background.
The Patently Apple website, which closely follows the patent presentations of the California technology company, detected a application that refers specifically to cruise control within the Carplay Ultra environment.
It reveals how cruise control information will be displayed in the instrument cluster, in addition to giving several visual indicators on multiple screens when it is active.
Apple also wants to reduce the amount of controller interaction required to adjust the system speed or turn it off.
Most car manufacturers have their adaptive cruise control (ACC) controls linked to their built -in navigation software, but this patent and Apple’s details suggest that Carplay Ultra will also see the information of the ACC of Apple Maps Systems, anticipating the road changes and the adjustment speed according to the local limits for a softer and safer trip.
Analysis: Carplay Ultra could be failed
Although much of the application of patents actually does not include anything new or truly innovative, it is proof that Apple is pressing to integrate all modern vehicle systems in its Ultra Carplay environment in the future.
That said, this approach that covers everything has resulted in some resistance of car manufacturers, some of which have already said that they no longer have plans to introduce technology into their vehicles.
Google has been offering an alternative on its Automotive Android platform, which allows manufacturers to offer a variety of applications and access to Google mapping software, without having to give up all digital real estate to the technological giant.
Digital subscriptions and online purchases are increasingly becoming an important income flow for manufacturers, which could explain why they doubt in allowing Apple to reine on the driver’s digital domain.
In addition, with the introduction of iOS 26, Apple has pledged to improve Carplay’s regular experience, so it is easier to use it behind the steering wheel and clarify some of the problems with technology.
It is very likely that most car manufacturers still offer Android Auto and Apple Carplay as screen reflex services, while continuing to promote their own applications and information and entertainment offers.
