Earlier this year, General Motors $GM ( ▲ 1.82% ) said it would phase out in-vehicle phone projection systems like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto across its lineup, expanding a strategy it first rolled out for its EVs in 2023. Now, the automaker is starting to fill that gap with native apps of its own.
On Monday, GM announced it is adding Apple $AAPL ( ▼ 0.3% ) Music to select 2025 Chevrolet and Cadillac models, marking one of the most prominent additions to its in-house infotainment ecosystem.
Replacing CarPlay, One App at a Time
CarPlay’s removal has been a sore spot for many drivers. In a recent American Trucks survey, 39% of respondents said the absence of Apple CarPlay or Android Auto would be a deal-breaker when buying a new vehicle.
GM appears willing to take that risk as it builds out its own software platform, which gives the company greater control over the in-car experience and access to valuable user data. Adding familiar apps like Apple Music is a way to soften the transition for customers who are losing phone-based systems they already trust.
An Industry Split Is Forming
GM isn’t alone in rethinking CarPlay, but the industry is far from aligned. Some automakers are betting that proprietary systems will unlock new revenue streams through data, subscriptions, and services.
Others are moving in the opposite direction. Tesla $TSLA ( ▼ 0.2% ), for example, has explored allowing CarPlay integration as it looks for ways to revive slowing sales, according to Bloomberg. The divide highlights a growing tension in the auto industry between controlling the dashboard and keeping drivers happy.