According to 9to5Mac, iOS 26 introduces a refined user experience for CarPlay, incorporating a ‘Liquid Glass’ design and enhanced widget integration. The update, available now, addresses a long-standing request from users regarding screenshot functionality within the CarPlay interface. This adjustment provides greater control over screen capture behavior when an iPhone is connected to a CarPlay-enabled system.
Previously, initiating a screenshot on a connected iPhone would automatically capture both the iPhone display and the CarPlay interface simultaneously. This presented an inconvenience for users intending to capture only the iPhone’s screen while connected to CarPlay. The unintended capture of the CarPlay display often resulted in an accumulation of unwanted screenshots within the user’s photo library.
iOS 26 mitigates this issue by disabling CarPlay screenshots by default. This means that after updating to iOS 26, performing a screenshot on the iPhone will exclusively capture the iPhone’s screen, preventing the automatic capture of the CarPlay display. This default setting aims to provide a more streamlined and intentional screenshot experience for users.
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Users retain the option to re-enable CarPlay screenshots if desired. This can be achieved through the Settings application by navigating to General, then selecting Screen Capture. Within this menu, a new toggle labeled “CarPlay Screenshots” allows users to activate or deactivate the feature according to their preferences. This ensures that users can customize their screenshot behavior to align with their specific needs and workflows.
Social media reactions indicate positive feedback regarding this change. As one user stated, the ability to disable CarPlay screenshots is a welcome improvement. The update provides a tailored experience, allowing users to manage their screenshot captures more effectively when using CarPlay. Beyond screenshot modifications, iOS 26 also presents a redesigned interface and expanded widget capabilities within CarPlay. These modifications contribute to a comprehensive enhancement of the CarPlay user experience.
