GM to Discontinue Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Support for Upcoming Electric Vehicles

If you are a fan of Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, you might want to think twice before buying a GM electric vehicle in the near future. The automaker has announced that it will phase out the popular smartphone projection systems in favor of a native Google infotainment system, starting with the 2024 Chevy Blazer EV.

This means that you won't be able to mirror your phone's screen on your vehicle's dashboard display, and you will have to rely on the built-in apps and services provided by Google. GM says this decision is driven by a desire to improve the navigation and charging experience for EV owners, as well as to capture more data and revenue from its customers.

But what does this mean for you as a potential buyer? Here are some pros and cons of GM's move to ditch Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Pros:

1. You will get seamless access to Google's ecosystem, including Google Maps, Google Assistant, Audible, Spotify, and more. GM says you will get eight years of free use of these apps at no extra charge.
2. You will benefit from some upcoming driver assistance technologies that are more tightly integrated with the navigation features. For example, your vehicle can warm up the battery before you reach a charging station, which can speed up the charging process and maximize your range.
3. You will enjoy a more consistent and streamlined user interface across different GM models and brands, as they will all use the same Android Automotive platform.

Cons:

1. You will lose access to some of the apps and features that you are used to on your phone, such as iMessage, FaceTime, Siri, Apple Music, Apple Podcasts, Apple Maps, etc. if you are an iPhone user, or some of the third-party apps that are compatible with Android Auto but not with Android Automotive.
2. You will have less choice and control over your infotainment experience, as you will have to use what GM and Google offer you. You won't be able to switch between different projection systems depending on your preference or mood.
3. You will have to pay a subscription fee after eight years if you want to continue using Google's apps and services. You will also have to share more data with GM and Google, which could raise some privacy and security concerns.

GM's decision to cut off access to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for its future EVs is a bold and risky one. It could alienate some customers who value their smartphone connectivity and flexibility, but it could also attract some customers who appreciate Google's products and services and want a more integrated and advanced infotainment system. Ultimately, it will depend on your personal preference and needs whether you will embrace or reject GM's new strategy.