This will not go well. GMs can already be a pain to use and figure out, and, it’s not like people think they are reliable, other than pickups
GM is eliminating Apple CarPlay and Android Auto from all vehicles — here’s the real reason why
General Motors is eliminating Apple CarPlay and Android Auto from all future vehicles – and it’s already maddening motorists.
The surprising announcement was made earlier this week by CEO Mary Barra, who claimed the company will completely phase out the popular systems from its entire fleet of electric and gas-powered cars over the next few years.
In their place will be GM’s own built-in interface, powered by Google’s Android Automotive OS, with Barra arguing in an interview with The Verge that it will allow for “a smoother, safer, and more unified user experience.”
GM has already begun rolling out its own system in some of their EVs, but currently continues to offer CarPlay and Android Auto in 34 of 40 models across its brands, per Newsweek.
According to AutoBlog, “GM’s long-term goal is to turn its vehicles into ‘software-defined platforms,’ unlocking revenue from subscriptions and in-car services.”
That doesn’t sound good
“Another really dumb decision by a US automaker (and I own GM products),” one fumed. “NO ONE wants a captive ‘GM’ system for apps and navigation. We know it will suck and they will upcharge it $2,000 on every car.”
“Here comes subscriptions to turn your car on,” another snarked.
“No longer can you get a vehicle without some sort of subscription being shoved down your throat,” a third X user raged. “Remote start is no longer on the fob. Next up, no more Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. If this trend continues, both apps will be discontinued completely.”
There are many manufacturers which make you pay for certain features that were already on the car, like seat heaters and remote start. You must subscribe, and, even use your phone with an app. Tell you what, if I had to pay to remote start my car, and use my phone instead of the key fob, I just wouldn’t. Heck, might look at a different manufacturer. I can subscribe to an app for $10 a month, but, I don’t. Not even having Alexa on the car is worth it (Samsung watches do not have the ability like my old Fitbit, have to pull out phone, usually turning on TV before I get home so can load up ESPN and watch my hockey game quickly).
Mercedes-Benz recently introduced its own operating system in its new CLA model, while Audi also has its own interface.
According to the Daily Mail, Ford, Toyota, and Volvo are also “developing their own [independent] software ecosystems.”
Not sure why. Carplay and AA work. And Apple customers are rabid about wanting to use Apple stuff. I suspect it’s all about finding a way to start hitting customers with “micro-transactions” and subscriptions.
