iOS 27.2 Brings Two CarPlay Improvements: Podcasts Sections and Siri AI Upgrades

In CarPlay, Apple Podcasts adds “New Episodes” and “Continue Playing” sections to the Home tab. The change reworks how the app’s core “Up Next” queue works, according to 9to5Mac. “New Episodes” shows only the latest episodes from favorite shows, while an episode that has been started appears in “Continue Playing” below it. The report said the overhaul makes it easier to find the latest episodes and resume where a listener left off.

Siri AI also receives upgrades in iOS 27.2, two of which carry over to CarPlay. According to 9to5Mac, Siri AI can recall past conversations, allowing users to ask about something it previously said, such as restaurants it recommended the week before. It can also draw from more sources for answers, including photos attached in Messages, Calendar event attendees, voicemails, and improved results from Safari history and Reading List. The report noted that users may need time to adjust to Siri AI being available in the car as it is on iPhone, and that CarPlay is an especially useful platform for the more powerful assistant.

iOS 27.2 also includes a new app icon for Apple Music and minor design tweaks in the app, 9to5Mac reported. The changes are tied to the full rebrand Apple Music unveiled the previous week, according to the report. 9to5Mac did not describe the icon or design changes in detail.

The CarPlay changes arrive as part of an iOS update that also adds features for Messages, Apple TV and other areas, the report said.