In a major update to CarPlay, Apple is set to introduce subtle refinements that include support for hiding certain first-party apps. With the release of iOS 18, users will have the ability to remove the Phone and Messages app from CarPlay. To access this feature, navigate to Settings > General > CarPlay > Customize and click on the remove icon next to the desired app. This long-awaited addition to CarPlay addresses a common request from users who prefer to use apps like Google Maps and Waze while driving, without having their calls and messages redirected to their vehicle.
This change not only offers greater privacy by preventing personal information from being displayed on the vehicle’s screen, but it also allows users to avoid accidentally revealing sensitive data to other passengers. However, it’s important to note that although the apps can be hidden, calls and messages will still be received and displayed on CarPlay. To interact with these notifications, users can utilize Siri as they would normally. The option to hide these apps will be a welcome addition for many, and it is expected to be available to all users when iOS 18 officially launches in the fall, coinciding with Apple’s hardware event.
