This development represents a notable indication of a wider transition within the automotive sector, as manufacturers aim to guide drivers towards their proprietary in-vehicle systems.
The specifics: GM, which has been actively engaged in discussions regarding the future of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, has confirmed through CEO Mary Barra in an interview with The Verge that it will entirely phase out these smartphone-centric systems.
Initially, this transition only affected electric vehicles, commencing in 2023; however, Barra stated that the company will now extend the phase-out to encompass gasoline-powered models as well.
GM plans to introduce a new centralized computing platform in 2028, which will evolve its entire product line into a cohesive, native in-car experience.
Moreover, the company is developing an assistant powered by Google Gemini and other custom applications—crafted internally and in collaboration with partners—to supplant conventional phone projection.
What They Are Expressing
“They lack insight into how you are interacting with their infotainment system,” remarked Andrew Hart, CEO of the analytical firm SBD, in a May article by Motor Trend regarding the shift from third-party systems. “That deprives automobile manufacturers of valuable intelligence that could enhance their offerings. ”
Significance
GM’s choice to eliminate Apple CarPlay and Android Auto signifies a substantial move towards owning its software ecosystem—and the accompanying data. For dealerships, this implies a need to prepare for increased focus on connected-service features, subscription offerings, and training to mitigate potential buyer resistance from customers who expect CarPlay or Android Auto in new vehicles.
Context
Within the industry, automakers are refining their own user interfaces while reducing the functions of third-party systems—a decision largely motivated by the desire to retain control over customer data and in-car experiences.
Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and BMW continue to support standard Apple CarPlay but have opted not to allow Apple’s next-generation system to dominate their complete interfaces.
Volvo and Polestar utilize Google’s Android Automotive OS or similar proprietary platforms that constrain the extent of control CarPlay can exert.
Tesla and Rivian have never provided native support for Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
“You are witnessing a pushback against ceding access to data to the major technology companies,” Hart stated, according to Motor Trend. He further noted, “It is a bold decision to counter consumer feedback, but they no longer wish to compromise between providing an attractive experience and maintaining control over their data.”
Conclusion
Dealers should anticipate a growing number of manufacturers committing to proprietary infotainment systems, AI-driven assistants, and subscription-based connected services as essential brand differentiators—and prepare their teams to effectively promote these features in a post-CarPlay landscape.
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