General Motors has plans to introduce future EVs to the market, but all those automobiles will have one major difference that will not play well with future customers; the lack of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. GM’s decision to remove any kind of infotainment system was based on the distraction level of drivers. One executive states that the automaker wishes to make its vehicles much safer for those behind the steering wheel, even if it means cutting down on a boatload of features.
Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay can have several connectivity and compatibility issues, leading to distraction, forcing General Motors to remove both in future vehicles
In a discussion with MotorTrend that was spotted by MacRumors, Tim Babbitt, who is General Motors’ head of product for infotainment, stresses there are several problems existing in both CarPlay and Android Auto that can lead to putting the driver in danger. Those problems range from compatibility to connectivity issues and slow response times, all of which can supposedly distract drivers. Babbitt believes drivers are less likely to pick up their smartphones in a car that does not rely on something like Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
Unfortunately, General Motors has not performed any independent testing, nor does it possess any data proving that a car with an Android Auto or Apple CarPlay infotainment system can distract drivers. He mentions that J.D. Power has collected data showing that car owners are experiencing problems with both platforms, but these users blame the automaker rather than Apple and Google. Regardless, data points from a company’s testing are better than relying on third-party information.
However, there might be another reason for GM’s removal of CarPlay, and that is having more control over data. With this information, GM can offer subscription services without the Apple CarPlay element, opening any revenue stream besides car sales. CarPlay is said to be eliminated in electric vehicles under the Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC brands. In contrast, combustion vehicles will continue to support the platform until they are phased by 2035.
News Source: MotorTrend
About the author: Omar Sohail is a reporter and analyst for Wccftech's mobile section, specializing in the technology and business of the mobile industry. His expertise lies in the intricate hardware supply chain, covering developments in semiconductor manufacturing, chip lithography, and camera sensor technology.
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