CarPlay screen defaults to icon screen vs last media App used.

If I am using any media app (Spotify, Apple Music, iHeart for example) when restarting my truck CarPlay defaults to the Home Screen (all the icons) vs displaying the app that I was using. This happens also if using "Now Playing". The song or station will play what I was listening to but again the screen just goes to what I call the default CP screen. This was NOT happening before I installed iOS 18. Is this happening to anyone else? I would assume it is a known issue because it also happens to my wife's car. Both are newer cars running latest updates for both. We are also using iPhone 16s running latest iOS.

iPhone 16 Pro Max, iOS 18

Posted on Feb 5, 2025 12:32 PM

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Feb 6, 2025 12:08 AM in response to studio9400

If CarPlay doesn't detect your iPhone, make sure CarPlay isn't restricted. Go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions. If Content & Privacy Restrictions are turned on, tap Allowed Apps and make sure CarPlay is enabled. Go to Settings > General > CarPlay, tap your car, and then tap Forget This Car.


If you need help with CarPlay - Apple Support (IN)



Search for accessories that have completed MFi certification. Once an accessory has completed MFi certification requirements and is reported to Apple as sold/distributed, it will be searchable in our public database of authorized Lightning, headset, charging, iAP-enabled, and Find My network-enabled accessories.


Learn how to identify counterfeit or uncertified Lightning-based accessories.



On your device, go to Settings > Bluetooth and turn on Bluetooth. Stay on this screen until you've completed the steps to pair your accessory.


Pair a third-party Bluetooth accessory with your iPhone or ...



If you're still having trouble with your car's audio system using CarPlay or Bluetooth, try the Aux cable. To get it fixed, there are two options:


  1. Take your car to a reputable car dealer or car audio specialist. They have experienced technicians who can diagnose the problem with the Aux cable. This could be a loose connection, a faulty cable itself, or an issue with the system's Aux port. They'll be able to repair the issue or recommend a replacement cable if needed.
  2. Consult your car's infotainment system manuals. These manuals often include troubleshooting sections that might address common Aux cable problems. You might find instructions for resetting the system, cleaning the Aux port, or confirming the cable's compatibility.


Before taking your car to a dealer, it's always a good idea to check the manuals first. This can sometimes save you time and money if it's a simple fix you can handle yourself. However, if the manuals don't offer a solution, or you're uncomfortable tinkering with the system, then a car audio specialist is the way to go.



Refer to the list of cars that are compatible with CarPlay --> iOS - CarPlay - Available Models



Feb 6, 2025 5:52 AM in response to SravanKrA

Thanks for the response but this is NOT a connection issue. This is a NOT working properly issue. Let me explain again. If you have a media app on the screen (Spotify, Apple Music, iHeart...) if you turn the car off and then back on the media app you were using does not come back on the screen. The screen changes to what I call the Home Screen with all the icons. This can’t be on purpose right? It never worked like this before. I think it started with either 18 or 18.1. When a car is restarted the screen should go back to EXACTLY the way it was when the car was turned off. Maps come back on the screen correctly. Messages comes back on the screen correctly. Everything comes back as it should except for Media apps. Now Playing does NOT come back on the screen either. Bug/Mistake/By design?

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CarPlay screen defaults to icon screen vs last media App used.

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