CarPlay contacts freeze on iOS 26

Since upgrading to IOS 26 (I have 26.2 now), CarPlay will freeze in the contacts section of the Phone app if I click on"Show More".


The only way I can get out of this is to disconnect the phone from CarPlay and add it back.


It is not the car as I have tried it with IOS 18 phones and it is fine. As soon as I update a phone to IOS 26, the freezing starts.


I have a 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross BTW


Any ideas?


Tony

Posted on Jan 6, 2026 10:17 PM

Reply
5 replies

Jan 7, 2026 4:25 AM in response to Tony Tapir

Unlike some Android devices, contacts are neither stored locally on an iPhone nor in the SIM. They are synced to an email account that you have Google, iCloud, AOL, Exchange, Outlook, Yahoo, or any Other



If you have a corporate email account added through a profile on your device, please check with your organization's system administrator.




  1. Is this your corporate/organization/enterprise/School Management iPhone? Then please contact the system administrator of your corporate//organisation/enterprise/School Management
  2. If it is your device, in that case, do you have any profile installed by your corporate/organization/enterprise/School Management?
    1. Erase the profile added by you. If you have installed a profile on your own, --> Install or remove configuration profiles on iPhone - Apple ...
    2. Please contact the system administrator of the organization who provided the profile to you




Jan 7, 2026 4:24 AM in response to Tony Tapir

It's not always the iOS update's fault!  Many things can cause phone problems.  If you tell people you think it's an iOS update, it might make it harder to fix or find a solution for the real issue.



Remember, the right question often leads to the solution!



Was/Is your device Jailbroken? If that's the situation, please be informed that attributing the issues to iOS updates may not be accurate.



iOS updates aim to enhance user experience, boost security, and fix bugs rather than disrupt core features. The majority of the issues after updates might stem from underlying, unmentioned factors. Updates won't typically alter personal data but may refine settings or features. Backup before major updates for safety. Review Apple's update details and backup advice for a smooth process.


Kindly consider checking your settings and addressing any device issues before attributing the issue to external factors. This could be a pure coincidence that the iOS update affected the iPhone functions.


Before initiating a standard iOS update, it's advisable to create a backup. Have you completed this step? If yes, proceed with the restoration from the backup.



See what each update does: OS — iOS 26, About iOS 18 Updates, About iOS 17 Updates, About iOS 16 Updates, About iOS 15 Updates, About iOS 14 Updates, About iOS 13 Updates, About iOS 12 Updates, and so on...


Jan 7, 2026 4:25 AM in response to Tony Tapir

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


Jan 7, 2026 11:24 AM in response to SravanKrA

Thanks guys. A lot to check there.


The phone is not jail broken and is private BTW. Tthe car is brand new. It all works fine, except for when I want to make a call, select and contact and "show more" to see all details.


I can make the call, but just can't get out of the screen by clicking the back arrow. This issue is repeatable on two iPhone 13minis and an iPhone 17. All of these worked fine, but when updated to IOS 26, show the same issue.


CarPlay is fine in all other cases. Note that, if I call recents, there is no issue, as the screen shows the number called, and I don't need to go through the extra screen.


I have a friend with a similarly new Corolla, and will check that and Toyota too.


Cheers


Tony

CarPlay contacts freeze on iOS 26

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