Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) is getting ready to allow third-party AI chatbots like ChatGPT, Google Gemini, and Anthropic’s Claude to work with CarPlay in the near future, as indicated by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. This represents a significant change in strategy for Apple, as CarPlay has traditionally been limited to specific types of apps such as navigation and entertainment.
Users will soon have the ability to interact with AI assistants directly through CarPlay using voice commands. However, there is a key restriction: Apple will not permit these chatbots to take over from Siri as the primary voice assistant. Instead, drivers will need to open the third-party AI app to activate voice control, although developers can set up apps to automatically switch to voice mode.
This development coincides with Apple’s broader focus on AI. The company recently bought Israeli AI startup Q.AI for $2 billion, which specializes in technology that interprets facial movements to control AI systems silently. Additionally, Apple is reportedly incorporating Google Gemini through a $1 billion annual deal to enhance Siri’s capabilities in upcoming iOS updates.
This move recognizes the increasing demand for advanced conversational AI while driving. Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:TSLA) already provides xAI’s Grok chatbot in its vehicles, and car manufacturers are increasingly including native AI integrations that bypass CarPlay completely. As discussed in today’s Daily Profit newsletter, developments in the AI chip sector and collaborations between automotive and AI companies are reshaping competition within the tech industry. By entering this space, Apple is positioning itself to compete as automotive AI becomes essential.
Investors have reacted positively to Apple’s AI strategy. The stock is currently trading at $278.12, showing a 7.18% increase over the past week and a 19.78% rise year-over-year. Apple’s strong performance in Q4 2025 earnings, with a 23% increase in revenue and notable growth in China revenue, has bolstered investor confidence. With 29 analysts rating the stock as buy or strong buy compared to only 3 sell ratings, it is widely believed that Apple’s practical approach to integrating AI sets it apart from rivals who are facing skepticism from investors regarding substantial AI investments with uncertain returns.