How to Customize Apple CarPlay: Dashboard, Apps & Split Screen Settings (2025)

When I first connected my iPhone to CarPlay, I was honestly amazed by how it completely transformed my driving experience. But like many drivers, I quickly realized the default setup didn’t quite match what I actually needed on the road.

That’s when I started diving deep into how to customize CarPlay. And let me tell you – there’s way more you can do than most people ever realize.

Key Takeaways: Everything You Can Customize in CarPlay

• Rearrange and organize apps directly from your iPhone Settings

• Customize Apple CarPlay split screen layouts to show multiple apps at once

• Change wallpapers and appearance settings for a personal look

• Set up dashboard widgets to display useful driving info

• Set up driving focus modes to cut down distractions

• Use voice commands to control customization hands-free

• Enable wireless connectivity for a cable-free experience

The best part? Most of these customizations take just a few minutes to set up, but they’ll enhance every single drive you take.

Understanding Apple CarPlay Customization Basics

CarPlay customization works pretty differently than customizing your iPhone’s home screen. The system focuses heavily on safety and simplicity – Apple has designed specific ways to personalize it that keep your attention where it belongs: on the road.

What Can You Customize in CarPlay?

Your CarPlay customization options fall into several key areas. You can customize CarPlay dashboard by changing which apps appear and how they’re arranged. The split screen feature lets you show multiple apps simultaneously – you might see navigation alongside music controls or messaging apps.

Visual customization includes picking wallpapers, choosing between dark and light modes, and adjusting text size. Dashboard widgets add another layer of personalization, showing weather, calendar events, and other helpful info based on your preferences.

Settings and preferences cover everything from managing notifications to optimizing voice control. These deeper customizations affect how CarPlay behaves in different driving situations, automatically adjusting based on time of day, location, or your habits.

CarPlay vs CarPlay Ultra Customization Differences

Traditional CarPlay offers solid customization options focused on the main display screen. You can arrange apps, change appearance settings, and set up basic dashboard layouts – all working within your vehicle’s infotainment system limits.

CarPlay Ultra came with iOS 16 and got even better in iOS 18. It provides way more customization options for supported vehicles. This next-gen system extends across multiple vehicle displays, including instrument clusters, heads-up displays, and additional screens throughout the cabin.

With CarPlay Ultra, you control vehicle-specific info display – things like climate controls, trip information, and even vehicle settings integration. However, not many manufacturers have adopted it yet. Only select luxury vehicles offer full CarPlay Ultra support.

iOS Version Requirements for Advanced Features

iOS 18 brings the biggest CarPlay customization improvements in recent years. The enhanced Siri functionality includes new visual animations and better voice recognition that works even in noisy driving environments.

Widget customization reaches new levels in iOS 18. You get more detailed control over information display and automatic content rotation based on driving context. The updated wallpaper selection includes dynamic options that adjust based on lighting conditions and time of day.

For users still on earlier iOS versions, basic app arrangement and appearance customization remain available. But you’ll miss out on the advanced widget functionality and improved voice control features that make iOS 18 CarPlay particularly compelling.

How to Customize CarPlay Apps and Layout

App customization forms the foundation of personalizing your CarPlay experience. This process happens entirely through your iPhone, not through your vehicle’s touchscreen, ensuring consistency across different cars you might drive.

Rearranging CarPlay App Icons Step-by-Step

Here’s exactly how to edit CarPlay screen layout:

1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone
2. Navigate to General, then CarPlay
3. Select your current vehicle from the list
4. Tap “Customize” to enter the app arrangement interface
5. Drag apps to your preferred positions
6. Place most-used apps in top-left positions for easy reach

I recommend putting your most frequently used apps in the top-left positions – these are easiest to reach while driving. Navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze typically work best in the primary position, followed by music apps like Spotify or Apple Music.

The arrangement you create syncs across all instances of this vehicle connection, so you won’t need to reconfigure each time you connect. If you drive multiple vehicles, you can create different layouts optimized for each car’s specific screen size and usage patterns.

Adding and Removing Apps from CarPlay

Not every iPhone app supports CarPlay, and you might not want all compatible apps cluttering your dashboard. The customization screen lets you:

• Enable apps by tapping the green plus button

• Disable apps by tapping the red minus button

• Choose from messaging apps like WhatsApp and Telegram

• Add navigation apps like Waze and Google Maps

• Include music streaming services like Spotify and Pandora

• Add communication apps like Skype and FaceTime Audio

When removing apps, consider your typical driving scenarios. If you rarely use Apple Music because you prefer Spotify, removing it reduces visual clutter and makes your preferred app easier to access. Similarly, if you don’t use messaging apps while driving, disabling them helps maintain focus on essential driving applications.

Remember that removing an app from CarPlay doesn’t affect its functionality on your iPhone – it simply hides it from the vehicle interface. You can always re-enable apps later if your preferences change.

Organizing Apps by Usage Priority

Think about your typical driving routine when organizing apps. Most drivers benefit from a navigation app in the top-left position, followed by their primary music app. Communication apps work well in easily accessible positions for hands-free calling and messaging.

Consider grouping related apps together:

• Put all music and entertainment apps in one area

• Place navigation and travel apps in another

• Group communication apps in a third section

This logical grouping makes it way easier to find what you need quickly while driving.

Seasonal adjustments can also improve your experience. During summer road trip season, you might prioritize travel apps and audiobook players. During daily commuting periods, navigation and news apps might take priority.

Mastering CarPlay Split Screen Customization

Split screen functionality represents one of CarPlay’s most advanced features, letting you monitor multiple applications simultaneously without constantly switching between interfaces.

Enabling and Configuring Split Screen Mode

When learning how to customize Apple CarPlay split screen, split screen activation varies by vehicle and screen size, but it generally happens automatically when CarPlay detects that multiple apps can display at the same time. Larger screens typically offer better split screen experiences – some vehicles support up to three app views.

The primary app usually takes up the larger portion of the screen, with secondary apps appearing as widgets or smaller windows. Navigation apps commonly take the primary position when active, since they require the most visual attention while driving.

You can influence split screen behavior through your app usage patterns. CarPlay learns from your preferences and automatically suggests split screen combinations based on your typical app pairings. For example, if you frequently use Google Maps with Spotify, the system will remember this combination and offer it automatically.

Choosing Which Apps Display in Split View

While you can’t directly force specific apps into split screen positions, understanding CarPlay’s logic helps you achieve your preferred layouts:

• Navigation apps almost always take priority for the primary position when providing active directions

• Music and media apps typically appear in secondary positions

• Communication apps may appear as notification banners or small widgets when messages arrive

The key to getting your preferred split screen layout? Consistent usage patterns. If you want specific apps to appear together, use them at the same time regularly. CarPlay’s learning algorithms will recognize these patterns and begin suggesting your preferred combinations automatically.

Optimizing Split Screen for Different Screen Sizes

Smaller CarPlay screens may only support two-app split views, while larger displays can accommodate three or more app sections. Understanding your vehicle’s capabilities helps you edit CarPlay screen more effectively.

For smaller screens, focus on the most essential app combinations:

• Navigation with music

• Communication with navigation during important calls

Avoid cluttering small displays with too much information that becomes difficult to read while driving.

Larger screens offer more flexibility, potentially displaying navigation, music, and communication apps simultaneously. These expanded views work particularly well for longer trips where you want constant access to multiple information sources.

Personalizing Your CarPlay Dashboard Appearance

Visual customization transforms CarPlay from a functional interface into a personalized extension of your digital lifestyle, making every drive feel more connected and tailored to your preferences.

Changing CarPlay Wallpapers and Backgrounds

Learning how to change CarPlay settings for wallpapers happens within CarPlay itself, not through your iPhone settings:

1. While connected to your vehicle, access the Settings app through the CarPlay interface
2. Navigate to the Wallpaper section
3. Choose from Apple’s curated selection of automotive-optimized wallpapers

Apple provides wallpapers designed for visibility under various lighting conditions. These wallpapers prioritize functionality over decoration, ensuring important interface elements remain clearly visible during both day and night driving.

Recent iOS 18 updates introduced dynamic wallpapers that automatically adjust based on your vehicle’s lighting conditions. When your headlights activate, the wallpaper transitions to a darker theme optimized for nighttime visibility – this automatic adaptation eliminates the need for manual adjustments during different driving conditions.

Setting Up Dark Mode and Light Mode Preferences

CarPlay’s appearance mode significantly impacts your driving comfort, especially during extended trips that span different lighting conditions:

• Dark mode reduces eye strain during nighttime driving and creates a more sophisticated cabin ambiance

• Light mode works better during daytime driving in bright conditions, providing higher contrast

• Automatic mode switches between light and dark themes based on your vehicle’s headlight status or ambient light sensors

Most drivers prefer the automatic switching option – it eliminates the need to manually adjust appearance settings during trips that extend from day into night. The transition happens seamlessly without interrupting navigation or media playback.

Customizing Text Size and Display Settings

Text size adjustments help drivers with different visual preferences optimize CarPlay readability without compromising safety:

• Choose larger text sizes for quick glances while driving

• The text size setting affects all CarPlay interface elements

• Display brightness often adjusts automatically based on ambient conditions

• You can manually override brightness settings when needed

Choose a size that allows comfortable reading at typical driving distances from your vehicle’s screen. Some vehicles with particularly bright or dim displays benefit from manual brightness adjustments to optimize visibility.

Advanced CarPlay Widget Customization (iOS 18)

iOS 18 introduces sophisticated widget functionality that transforms CarPlay into a more intelligent and contextually aware driving assistant, providing relevant information without requiring manual app switching.

Setting Up CarPlay Widgets for the First Time

Widget setup begins in your iPhone’s CarPlay settings:

1. Navigate to Settings > General > CarPlay
2. Select your vehicle
3. Look for widget-related options in the customization menu
4. Enable widget functionality for supported apps

Initial widget configuration focuses on selecting information types most relevant to your driving habits:

• Weather widgets provide current conditions and forecasts for your route

• Calendar widgets show upcoming appointments and suggest departure times

• Location permissions allow widgets to provide contextually relevant information

Widget configuration syncs across your CarPlay-enabled vehicles, ensuring consistent information display regardless of which car you’re driving.

Best Widgets for Driving and Navigation

Navigation-focused widgets provide the most driving value:

• Show traffic conditions, alternate routes, and estimated arrival times

• Work great for familiar routes where you don’t need full navigation display

• Provide traffic awareness without taking up the entire screen

Weather widgets offer essential safety information:

• Particularly valuable for long trips or uncertain conditions

• Alert you to precipitation, temperature changes, or severe weather along your planned route

• Help you make informed decisions about departure timing or route selection

Calendar integration widgets prevent scheduling conflicts:

• Show upcoming appointments

• Automatically calculate departure times based on current traffic conditions

• Suggest leaving earlier when traffic is heavy

Music and media widgets:

• Display currently playing content

• Provide quick controls without switching to full media apps

• Work particularly well in split screen configurations

Third-Party Widget Integration and Compatibility

Third-party widget support varies by app. Major navigation, weather, and media applications offer the most comprehensive CarPlay widget integration. Popular apps like Spotify, Google Maps, and weather apps provide widgets specifically designed for automotive use.

Compatibility requirements include:

• iOS 18 support

• Specific CarPlay widget APIs that developers must implement

• Not all iPhone widgets automatically work in CarPlay

The approval process for CarPlay widgets ensures they meet automotive safety standards and don’t create unnecessary distractions. This vetting process means widget availability grows more slowly than general iPhone widgets, but it ensures higher quality and safety standards.

CarPlay Settings and Preferences Optimization

Deep customization through settings and preferences allows you to fine-tune CarPlay behavior to match your specific driving habits and safety preferences.

Configuring Driving Focus and Do Not Disturb

Driving Focus represents one of CarPlay’s most important safety features, automatically filtering notifications and calls to minimize distractions during vehicle operation:

• Activates based on vehicle movement, Bluetooth connections, or manual activation

• Lets you specify which contacts can reach you during driving

• Allows you to customize which apps can send notifications during Driving Focus

• Includes automatic activation settings

The configuration allows you to specify which contacts can reach you during driving – typically including family members, work contacts, or emergency services. Important calls can still come through while casual notifications wait until you’re no longer driving.

Automatic activation settings let Driving Focus engage when CarPlay connects, when your phone detects vehicle movement, or when specific Bluetooth devices connect. This automation ensures consistent distraction reduction without requiring manual activation each trip.

Voice Control and Siri Settings Optimization

Siri integration in CarPlay offers hands-free control over most customization and operational functions:

• Voice command recognition improves with usage as Siri learns your pronunciation

• “Hey Siri” activation works even when your iPhone is connected to CarPlay

• Voice command customization includes creating shortcuts for complex actions

• Enhanced noise cancellation for vehicle environments

Siri’s automotive optimizations include enhanced noise cancellation for vehicle environments and context awareness. The system recognizes automotive terminology and responds appropriately to location-based and navigation-oriented requests.

You can create shortcuts for complex actions like “start my commute home” – this can activate navigation, start preferred music, and set appropriate focus modes all at once. These shortcuts reduce the number of individual commands needed for routine driving scenarios.

Troubleshooting Common CarPlay Customization Issues

Even with proper setup, CarPlay customization can sometimes encounter technical issues that prevent optimal functionality. Understanding common problems and their solutions helps maintain a smooth driving experience.

Fixing App Arrangement Problems

App arrangement issues often stem from synchronization problems between your iPhone and the vehicle’s CarPlay system:

• If your app layout doesn’t match your iPhone settings, try disconnecting and reconnecting CarPlay

• Force-close the Settings app on your iPhone and restart the CarPlay connection

• Multiple vehicle profiles can create confusion if you drive different cars regularly

• App visibility problems may indicate compatibility issues or iOS version conflicts

Cache conflicts can cause apps to appear in wrong positions or fail to respond to arrangement changes. Make sure you’re modifying the correct vehicle profile in your iPhone’s CarPlay settings – each connected vehicle maintains its own app arrangement configuration.

Resolving Split Screen Display Issues

Split screen functionality depends on vehicle screen size, processing power, and manufacturer implementation:

• Verify that your vehicle actually supports split screen feature

• Performance issues may indicate that too many apps are running at once

• Try reducing the number of active apps or restarting CarPlay

• Screen resolution conflicts can cause layouts to appear incorrectly

App-specific split screen problems might indicate that certain applications don’t work well together. Try different app combinations to identify problematic pairings and avoid using them simultaneously.

Resetting CarPlay Customization Settings

Complete CarPlay reset may be necessary when persistent problems affect overall functionality:

1. Navigate to Settings > General > CarPlay on your iPhone
2. Select your vehicle
3. Choose “Forget This Car” to remove all customization settings
4. Reconnect CarPlay and reconfigure your settings from scratch

This process eliminates corrupted preferences or conflicting settings that might be causing ongoing problems. Vehicle-side reset procedures vary by manufacturer but typically involve resetting the infotainment system to factory defaults through vehicle settings menus.

Frequently Asked Questions About CarPlay Customization

Can you customize Apple CarPlay layout and apps?

Yes, you can extensively customize Apple CarPlay through your iPhone’s Settings app. Navigate to Settings > General > CarPlay, select your vehicle, and tap “Customize” to rearrange apps, add or remove applications, and configure your preferred layout. These changes sync automatically with your vehicle’s CarPlay system.

How do I rearrange apps on my CarPlay screen?

To edit CarPlay screen app arrangement, access CarPlay customization through Settings > General > CarPlay on your iPhone. Select your vehicle and tap “Customize.” From there, you can drag apps to rearrange them – changes appear immediately on your vehicle’s display the next time you connect.

What’s the difference between CarPlay and CarPlay Ultra customization?

Traditional CarPlay offers single-screen customization focused on app arrangement and basic settings. CarPlay Ultra extends across multiple vehicle displays, including instrument clusters and heads-up displays, with deeper vehicle system integration. However, CarPlay Ultra requires specific vehicle hardware and manufacturer support.

Can I add widgets to my CarPlay dashboard?

iOS 18 introduced comprehensive widget support for CarPlay. You can customize CarPlay dashboard with weather, calendar, navigation, and media widgets. Configure widgets through your iPhone’s CarPlay settings, and they’ll display helpful information based on your driving patterns and preferences.

How do I change my CarPlay wallpaper and appearance?

To change CarPlay settings for wallpapers, use the Settings app within CarPlay itself while connected to your vehicle. Apple provides automotive-optimized wallpapers that adjust automatically based on lighting conditions. You can also switch between light and dark modes or enable automatic switching based on your vehicle’s headlight status.

Why can’t I see certain apps in my CarPlay interface?

Apps must specifically support CarPlay to appear in the interface. If an installed app doesn’t appear in your CarPlay customization options, it likely doesn’t include CarPlay compatibility. Additionally, some apps may require specific iOS versions or updates to enable CarPlay functionality.

How do I set up CarPlay split screen mode?

Apple CarPlay split screen customize options activate automatically on supported vehicles when multiple compatible apps are running. You can’t directly force split screen layouts, but CarPlay learns from your usage patterns and suggests app combinations you frequently use together. Larger vehicle displays typically offer better split screen experiences.

What iOS version do I need for advanced CarPlay features?

iOS 18 provides the most comprehensive CarPlay customization features, including advanced widgets, improved Siri integration, and dynamic wallpapers. Basic customization works with earlier iOS versions, but you’ll need iOS 18 for the latest widget functionality and voice control improvements.

Conclusion and Best Practices

Learning how to customize CarPlay transforms your vehicle into a personalized digital workspace that enhances every drive. The key to successful CarPlay customization lies in understanding your driving patterns and prioritizing the features that genuinely improve your experience behind the wheel.

At Car Tech Studio, we’ve helped countless customers set up their CarPlay systems. Based on our experience, I recommend starting with basic app organization – place navigation and music apps in easily accessible positions. As you become comfortable with these fundamentals, explore advanced features like widgets and split screen functionality that can provide multiple information sources without requiring constant app switching.

Remember that effective CarPlay customization prioritizes safety above all else. Choose layouts and configurations that minimize the time you spend looking away from the road. Take advantage of voice control features that allow hands-free operation of most CarPlay functions.

Regular updates to both iOS and your vehicle’s software ensure you have access to the latest customization features and compatibility improvements. As CarPlay continues evolving, particularly with CarPlay Ultra expansion, staying current with updates maximizes your customization possibilities.

The investment in proper CarPlay customization pays dividends in improved driving safety, enhanced convenience, and a more enjoyable overall driving experience. Whether you’re commuting daily or embarking on cross-country adventures, a well-configured CarPlay system becomes an indispensable driving companion that adapts to your needs and preferences.

For drivers looking to upgrade their factory infotainment systems, consider exploring [premium Android head units or CarPlay modules that can add these advanced customization features to older vehicles. These aftermarket solutions bring modern CarPlay capabilities to cars that weren’t originally equipped with the latest technology, allowing you to experience all the customization benefits discussed in this guide.