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Automakers shift toward built-in infotainment systems instead of Apple CarPlay

Engadget reports that automakers like General Motors are dropping smartphone mirroring software in favor of proprietary connected systems.

The short version

  • General Motors is dropping Apple CarPlay and Android Auto from its newest electric vehicles and plans a full phaseout from gas models by roughly 2028.[Engadget]
  • Automakers seek native control over vehicle data, software features, and subscription revenue, whereas EV competitors like Tesla and Rivian never adopted CarPlay.[Engadget]
  • Apple reports strong consumer demand for CarPlay, but the next-generation CarPlay Ultra has seen minimal adoption among major auto manufacturers.[Engadget]

Key facts

  • General Motors is removing Apple CarPlay and Android Auto from new electric vehicles, including the Chevrolet Blazer EV, and aims to end support in gas vehicles around 2028.[Engadget]
  • Tesla and Rivian have never supported Apple CarPlay in their production vehicles.[Engadget]
  • Apple claimed in 2022 that 79 percent of car buyers would refuse a vehicle without CarPlay, while a separate survey indicated losing it is a deal breaker for 55 percent of users.[Engadget]
  • The FTC banned General Motors from selling driver data for five years following allegations of collecting behavior data without informed consent.[Engadget]

What remains uncertain

  • It remains uncertain when or if automakers like Hyundai and Kia will adopt Apple's expanded CarPlay Ultra software.[Engadget]

Sources

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.