General Motors has expressed its view that discontinuing the independent integration of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto could enhance driving safety. This perspective was shared with Motor Trend recently.
During a recent press event for the 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV, which will be the first model to feature a new Google-based infotainment system excluding Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Tim Babbitt, who leads GM’s infotainment product division, conveyed to Motor Trend that this change is aimed at reducing the likelihood of drivers using their phones while driving.
Overview of Chevrolet Blazer
2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV
Tim Babbitt pointed out that Apple CarPlay and Android Auto often face performance issues, such as delayed responses, unsatisfactory display quality, and connectivity interruptions. He suggested that these issues might encourage drivers to resort to their phones for better functionality. Babbitt admitted, however, that GM has not conducted formal testing to support this theory.
Motor Trend also acknowledges the performance inconsistencies of CarPlay and Android Auto, attributing them to factors like unreliable wireless connections, compatibility challenges with various Android devices, and issues affecting older iPhone models. GM’s strategy to counter these problems involves incorporating essential features, like Google Maps, directly into its infotainment system. This integration is expected to provide greater stability and allow GM to access data generated by the users more directly.
2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV
In April, GM announced that all its future electric vehicles would be equipped with the new Google-based infotainment system. Following the Blazer EV, upcoming models such as the Chevy Equinox EV, Cadillac Celestiq, and GMC Sierra EV will also exclude Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, some of these models have experienced delays in their launch due to production issues.
This change will not affect GM’s combustion-engine vehicles for now. Nevertheless, GM has hinted at a gradual phase-out of gas-powered vehicles in its portfolio. In 2021, the company set a goal to eliminate tailpipes from its light-duty vehicles by 2035 and plans to transition Buick and Cadillac to fully electric lineups by the end of this decade.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about GM Apple CarPlay Android Auto Safety
Why is GM phasing out Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in their vehicles?
GM believes that by removing standalone Apple CarPlay and Android Auto from their vehicles, they can enhance driving safety. This decision is based on the idea that integrated systems reduce the likelihood of drivers using their phones while driving, which can be a distraction and a safety hazard.
What issues does GM identify with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
GM has noted that Apple CarPlay and Android Auto often face performance issues, such as slow responses, poor rendering, and dropped connections. These issues, GM argues, could lead drivers to use their phones directly, increasing the risk of distraction.
What will replace Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in GM vehicles?
GM is introducing a new Google-based infotainment system in its electric vehicles, starting with the 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV. This system is designed to integrate essential features directly, thereby offering more stability and reducing the need for drivers to use their phones.
Does GM’s decision to remove Apple CarPlay and Android Auto apply to all its vehicles?
Currently, GM’s decision to exclude Apple CarPlay and Android Auto applies only to its electric vehicles. Combustion-engine vehicles will continue to feature these systems for the time being.
What is GM’s future plan regarding electric vehicles?
GM has announced an aspiration to remove tailpipes from its light-duty vehicles by 2035 and aims to make brands like Buick and Cadillac all-electric by the end of this decade. This is part of their broader strategy to shift towards more sustainable and environmentally friendly vehicles.
More about GM Apple CarPlay Android Auto Safety
- General Motors Official Website
- Motor Trend Article on GM’s Infotainment Systems
- Chevrolet Blazer EV Overview
- 2024 GM Electric Vehicle Lineup
- GM’s Sustainability Goals and Plans
4 comments
interesting move by GM, integrating google’s system could be a game changer if it works as they say. But will it be as user-friendly as CarPlay? Guess we’ll have to wait and see.
So GM is ditching Apple CarPlay and Android Auto? Not sure how I feel about that, always found them pretty handy in my car…
It’s great to see GM pushing for all-electric models, but removing popular features might not sit well with everyone. Let’s hope their new infotainment system is up to the mark!
finally some car companies are thinking about safety over convenience, good job GM. Although, I hope their new system is reliable and easy to use.