CarPlay failure caused by iOS 18.4 update: connection issues and missing notifications

Apple recently released the highly anticipated iOS 18.4 update, which includes new emojis, AI features, priority notifications, and several changes to CarPlay. However, these changes seem to do more harm than good, and many users report that CarPlay is almost unusable.

The iOS 18.4 update should fix some major CarPlay issues, especially for EV users. Major CarPlay changes include three-line icons on the home screen, and the option of default navigation apps in the EU (not limited to Apple Maps anymore). It also adds an API that allows sports apps to display scores on the newly launched "Play" interface. While it is a big step for users to have three rows of icons on the home screen now, it also brings a series of connectivity issues and glitches.

Several CarPlay users on Reddit, X (formerly Twitter) and other platforms reported that the iOS 18.4 update caused unstable vehicle connections. The user reported that the dashboard no longer displays the "Playing" message, and the notification function also appears abnormal. It is worth noting that the notification issue for iOS 18 is not the first time that test users have complained similarly last month.

More importantly, when the phone remains connected, CarPlay can display maps, incoming calls and other information, thus keeping your hands on the steering wheel more securely. Unfortunately, many users have encountered recurring connection problems. The phone is constantly connected and disconnected, and for users who use wired connections, some people need to plug and unplug the phone repeatedly until it is finally connected and works properly.

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Article 8 These complaints come from everywhere and are not limited to specific brands of vehicles or stereo receivers. Users on Reddit reported CarPlay errors in Audi, Chevrolet, Mazda, Ford, Honda, Volkswagen and more.

So, how to solve these problems? Unfortunately, there is no known solution yet. 9to5Mac recommends unpairing the entire system, removing your vehicle from the CarPlay app, and starting over. Users can start the iPhone, go to Settings > General > CarPlay, and slide to delete the vehicle. Then, re-pair your car with your phone and apps, hoping it will work better. One user said he tried the process twice, and the second time seemed to solve the problem. But please note that your results may vary.

It looks like users can't fix this on their own, which may require software updates from Apple. If there is any positive aspect, it is that Apple is already actively preparing to release its iOS 18.5 update, which is currently in the beta phase. Once released, it should fix some of these complaints. However, considering that the iOS 18.5 update will not be released until next month, many iPhone users who are trying to use CarPlay may have to wait until then to fix the problem.

In addition to changes to CarPlay, the iOS 18.4 update ended up adding RCS support for Google FI and other T-Mobile operators, fixing a bunch of random bugs, adding more features to the photo app, adding user comment summary in the App Store, adding ambient music control in the Control Center, and more. Please stay tuned and we will report it in time once we learn more or find possible solutions.