GM to phase out Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in EVs

MANILA: General Motors (GM) is planning to replace Apple CarPlay and Android Auto technologies with built-in infotainment systems developed in partnership with Google in upcoming electric vehicles.

The shift to a new integrated infotainment system, first reported by Reuters, will begin with the 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV.

Since 2019, GM has been working with Google in designing the software foundations for infotainment systems that will be more directly connected to other vehicle systems such as GM’s Super Cruise driver assistant.

“We have a lot of new driver assistance features coming that are more tightly coupled with navigation. We don’t want to design these features in a way that is dependent on a person having a cellphone,” GM Digital Cockpit Experience Executive Director Mike Himche said in an interview with Reuters.

According to GM, those who will purchase GM electric vehicles equipped with the new systems will have free access to Google Maps and Assistant for eight years.

GM added that drivers with iPhones and Android phones will still have access to hands-free calling, voice texting, and music streaming via Bluetooth.

GM also clarified that its ICE models will still have access to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

“As we scale our EVs and launch our Ultifi software platform, we can do more than ever before with in-vehicle technologies and over-the-air updates. All of this is allowing us to constantly improve the customer experience we can offer across our brands,” GM Chief Digital Officer Edward Kummer stated.

Photos from Chevrolet

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