Marketing: Big call by GM

[El Presidente]

I  wouldn't buy a new car without  Apple Carplay/ Android Auto functionality. 

 

Would you?   

 

GM Will Remove Apple CarPlay and Android Auto From All Future Vehicles

 

 

GM plans to eliminate Apple CarPlay and Android Auto from all vehicles, expanding a decision that redefines how drivers connect — and how automakers control the screen.

By Max Taylor

News Editor, Autoblog

 

Key Points

• GM’s long-term goal is to turn its vehicles into “software-defined platforms,” unlocking revenue from subscriptions and in-car services.
• GM will eliminate Apple CarPlay and Android Auto from all future vehicles, not just EVs.
• The move aims for a unified, in-house infotainment system powered by Google's Android Automotive OS.

 

General Motors has confirmed it plans to remove Apple CarPlay and Android Auto from all future vehicles, expanding a controversial decision that previously applied only to its EV lineup. In an interview with The Verge, CEO Mary Barra said the move will eventually cover the company’s entire range, including gasoline and hybrid models, as GM transitions toward a fully integrated in-house infotainment ecosystem.

GM says the change will allow for a smoother, safer, and more unified user experience. Barra described traditional smartphone mirroring as “fragmented,” arguing that customers switching between native vehicle software and their phones disrupts the flow of connected features like navigation, energy monitoring, and driver assistance.

It’s a controversial position, but not without industry context. As automakers have grown wary of Apple’s expanding control over dashboard systems. CarPlay Ultra, the next-generation version set to replace entire vehicle interfaces, would further limit what automakers can customize or monetize, a move many brands see as encroaching on their software independence.

GM’s long-term goal is to turn its vehicles into “software-defined platforms,” unlocking revenue from subscriptions and in-car services. But the short-term risks are clear. Consumers have overwhelmingly embraced CarPlay and Android Auto for their familiarity and reliability, and GM’s decision could alienate tech-minded buyers who expect these features by default.

[LizardGizmo]

My Canyonero is a Silverado 1500 High Country and despite how much I love it (it’s easily my favorite vehicle I’ve ever had) I wouldn’t replace it with another Silverado that doesn’t have CarPlay.

I’m assuming GM is only doing this to have complete control of all data inside the vehicle. I’m sure Apple sandboxes a lot of it.

[BG318]

All those subscription based software ideas related to autos can go straight to hell. Too self serving for the companies, giving the consumer the finger. Not like it's not prevalent everywhere already, but it is a flagrant money grab, without providing customer value. Just like the over engineered boxes in the supermarket that look just as big as they did before and have 5 ounces of product inside.

[Cigar Surgeon]

There are times when I read something like this and wonder how someone at an executive level is so disconnected from the consumer as to still be employable.

[qs210]

What a terrible decision.

[NYGuido]

I am a privacy and cybersecurity lawyer who has worked in house for large tech and at law firms advising companies in the tech and automotive spaces. This does not surprise me at all, since the data generated by these kinds of systems can be VERY valuable.

[Chibearsv]

6 minutes ago, NYGuido said:

I am a privacy and cybersecurity lawyer who has worked in house for large tech and at law firms advising companies in the tech and automotive spaces. This does not surprise me at all, since the data generated by these kinds of systems can be VERY valuable.

And why allow a driver to use the internet service that they already pay for when you can charge for it direct

[Lucas Buck]

Rented an F-150 with apple CarPlay last week and LOVED IT! Will be very difficult for me to buy a car without it now. 

[El Presidente]

17 minutes ago, NYGuido said:

 since the data generated by these kinds of systems can be VERY valuable.

I suspect the challenge for GM may be the following 

No customers = no data = no value 

[NYGuido]

24 minutes ago, Chibearsv said:

And why allow a driver to use the internet service that they already pay for when you can charge for it direct

They don't even need to charge for the service; they'll make more selling the data to data brokers and digital marketing firms.

[qs210]

57 minutes ago, NYGuido said:

They don't even need to charge for the service; they'll make more selling the data to data brokers and digital marketing firms.

Id be shocked if the dont charge for it.  Make money coming and going

[Gemini_Man]

Intentional Luddite here... are the above mentioned software packages required for cell phone connectivity in later model cars? Or do they just provide seamless integration? 

My 2015 Caddy just uses Bluetooth and I get all my phone capabilities that way. What ends up missing without the Apple or Android packages?

[Chibearsv]

20 minutes ago, Gemini_Man said:

Intentional Luddite here... are the above mentioned software packages required for cell phone connectivity in later model cars? Or do they just provide seamless integration? 

My 2015 Caddy just uses Bluetooth and I get all my phone capabilities that way. What ends up missing without the Apple or Android packages?

Can still connect Bluetooth as usual or Apple CarPlay which displays and runs the apps on your phone to the cars display screen. So content all comes through the phone which feels more private rather than syncing contacts and such to the vehicle itself. I don’t know if it is, but it could be?