Apple has confirmed that the long-awaited next-generation CarPlay update will arrive this year. Additionally, some additional information about the in-car software was discovered in the first beta version of iOS 17.4, which has just begun to be distributed to developers.

Apple has not confirmed a specific date for when CarPlay 2.0 will be rolled out or which countries will be involved, but the website currently says it will appear in 2024. Previously, it had said "late 2023," but for reasons that Apple has not revealed, that apparently did not happen.

MacRumors found eight references to the new CarPlay system even inside the iOS 17.4 beta - seemingly confirming which car features will be integrated with the new software. From the looks of it, CarPlay will be able to access quite a few car systems and data.

These references confirm that CarPlay will be able to control the car's climate control, including heated seats, FM and AM radio, and even SiriusXM. The software also appears to be able to access live video from onboard cameras, the electric car's charging status, tire pressure details, and whether doors have been accidentally left open.

On top of that, CarPlay has the ability to adjust vehicle settings and record data about driving, although it is unclear how. These include average speed, fuel economy, and the time and distance of individual trips.

The images inside the beta version also seem to confirm the stock second-generation CarPlay design and color scheme. This includes the instrument cluster, which has two dials on either side of the screen and a square in the center that displays media, navigation, and other functions when needed.

However, we know from both individual users and automakers that some degree of customization will be possible. Porsche, for example, has already confirmed that CarPlay on the driver display will have three circular menus and avoid linear edges altogether.

It also appears that when the car is turned off, a "good-bye" message will appear in a style similar to the iPhone's "hello" screen.

So far, only Porsche and Aston Martin have confirmed that the new CarPlay will be available in some of their cars by the end of the year. So it remains to be seen if other cars will soon support the new software and if it will be available for older models.

So far, Apple has confirmed that Acura, Ford, Honda, Infiniti, Jaguar Land Rover, Lincoln, Mercedes, Nissan, Polestar, Renault, and Volvo will support the software. So it will be up to these automakers to decide how they will support CarPlay 2.0 in the future.