GM

Detroit auto giant plans to phase out Apple CarPlay and Android Auto technologies

General Motors Co plans to phase out the widely used Apple CarPlay and Android Auto technologies that allow drivers to bypass a vehicle's infotainment systems, switching instead to integrated systems developed with Google for future electric vehicles.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto allow users to mirror their smartphone screens onto a vehicle's dashboard display.

GM's decision to stop offering these systems in future electric vehicles, starting with the 2024 Chevrolet Blazer, could help the automaker capture more data about how consumers drive and charge electric vehicles.

GM is designing the navigation and in-flight entertainment systems for future electric vehicles in partnership with Google.

The decision to phase out CarPlay smartphone projection technology is a setback for Apple as it competes with Google to capture more space on vehicle dashboards in North America. In the past, GM's Chevrolet brand boasted more models with CarPlay or Android Auto than any other brand.

The automaker has been working with Google since 2019 to develop the software foundations for infotainment systems that will be further integrated with other vehicle systems, such as the Super Cruise driver assistant. The automaker is accelerating a strategy for its electric vehicles to be platforms for digital subscription services.

Buyers of vehicles with the new systems will have access to Google Maps and the Google Assistant and a voice command system at no additional cost for eight years, GM said. The company said that future infotainment systems will offer apps like Spotify, Audible and other services that many drivers now access via smartphones.

GM plans to continue offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto mirroring systems on its combustion models. Owners of vehicles equipped with mirroring technologies will still be able to use the systems.

Drivers will also be able to listen to music or make phone calls on iPhones or Android smartphones using Bluetooth connectivity, the company said.

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