Tesla is developing support for Apple’s CarPlay system in its electric vehicles, signalling a notable shift in the company’s long resistance to third-party software. The feature is being tested internally and could roll out in the coming months, although plans are not yet final and may be delayed.

CarPlay remains one of the most requested additions among Tesla owners. The platform mirrors key iPhone functions such as navigation, music, messaging and voice control through a vehicle’s display. Rival automakers already treat seamless smartphone integration as a major selling point, and a 2024 McKinsey study found that about one third of car buyers consider the absence of CarPlay or Android Auto a deal-breaker.

Tesla’s adoption of CarPlay would represent a significant reversal for CEO Elon Musk, who has long criticised Apple and resisted opening Tesla’s infotainment environment to outside platforms. The move comes as Tesla faces softening vehicle sales and as Apple’s withdrawal from its EV project removes a potential source of rivalry. Musk also now depends on Apple for distribution of the X social networking app and the Grok AI assistant.

Tesla plans to integrate CarPlay within a window inside its existing interface rather than allowing the Apple software to replace its operating system. The standard version of CarPlay will be supported, not the Ultra iteration used in a small number of luxury vehicles. Drivers will be able to connect wirelessly, although CarPlay will not control Tesla features such as full self driving and will not replace Tesla’s built-in navigation for those functions.

Tesla currently offers Apple Music and Spotify through its proprietary infotainment system, which also supports messaging, web browsing and access to Grok. Neither Tesla nor Apple has commented publicly on the CarPlay development.