Apple Plans to Allow Outside Voice-Controlled Chatbots in Cars

Apple Inc. is preparing to allow voice-controlled artificial intelligence apps from other companies in CarPlay, according to people familiar with the matter, a move that will let users query AI chatbots through its vehicle interface for the first time.

The company is working to support the apps in CarPlay within the coming months, said the people, who asked not to be identified because the plan hasn’t been announced.

The change marks a strategic shift for Apple, which until now has only allowed its own Siri assistant as a voice-control option within its popular vehicle infotainment software. With the move, AI ...