IOS 26 on 4th Gen Tacoma CarPlay

[k2idle]

Just got the iPhone 17 and upgraded to iOS 26, hooked it up to the 14-inch screen in my 4th Gen Tacoma and man, the CarPlay changes are wild. Appearance options are way better, feels much more modern and makes the most out of the screen.

Here’s what I’ve noticed so far:
• “Liquid Glass” visuals: icons have more depth/translucency; UI feels less flat.
• New icon styles: default, dark, and a “clear” mode. Clear mode looks really sharp on the big screen.
• New wallpapers that adapt for light/dark mode, so the whole screen aesthetic flows better.
• Incoming calls are less intrusive now don’t take over everything, navigation or whatever you’re using stays visible.
• Widgets & Live Activities are so clean with the analog clock and pictures

Video isn’t available yet, but I’ve heard it’s coming.

If anyone else tried these out, what do you think? Does the new CarPlay look & feel make driving more enjoyable, or is it just another update to you?

 

[rustytaco]

Pretty sleek. I need to update my phone. I also need a new phone too...