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.”
Many motorists took to social media to express anger over the announcement, with some saying it was nothing more than a cash grab by the car company.
“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.”
However, GM isn’t the only automaker implementing its own interface.
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.”
However, a GM spokesperson told that publication that Barra’s announcement shouldn’t spook current GM owners.
“We are not making any changes to existing vehicles,” the spokesperson said. “If your car supports Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, that will continue.”
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