TL;DR
Several major carmakers are planning to reduce or remove support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, driven largely by a desire for greater control over vehicle software and data. Industry efforts include proprietary systems and an open-source alternative, but transitions could affect app availability and update frequency for in-car services.
What happened
Automakers are increasingly exploring alternatives to Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. General Motors announced plans last year to drop both systems in upcoming models and build its own infotainment platform that will integrate Google’s Gemini assistant. Separately, BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen — along with eight other firms in Germany’s VDA — are developing an open-source vehicle backbone called S-Core to give manufacturers more control over core services; an advanced iteration is hoped for in 2026. Apple’s CarPlay Ultra has seen limited uptake: Aston Martin implemented it, but several brands including Hyundai, Kia and Genesis have retreated on commitments, and others such as Mercedes, Audi, Volvo, Polestar and BMW say they will stick with basic CarPlay. Automakers cite control over vehicle systems and data as key motives, while analysts warn that leaving established platforms could reduce access to widely used apps and slow updates.
Why it matters
- Shifting away from Android Auto and CarPlay could limit access to familiar apps like navigation and music services in new cars.
- Manufacturers want more control over vehicle systems and the data those systems generate, which could change who collects driving and usage information.
- New or forked platforms may offer different user experiences and slower app updates compared with established mobile-integrated systems.
- The pace and direction of change will affect buyers, app developers and aftermarket expectations for in-car connectivity.
Key facts
- GM announced plans to remove Android Auto and CarPlay from future models and develop its own system that integrates Google Gemini.
- BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen joined eight other companies under the VDA to create S-Core, an open-source 'Safety Open Vehicle Core'.
- An advanced version of S-Core is hoped to be available at some point in 2026.
- Adoption of Apple’s CarPlay Ultra has been limited: Aston Martin has implemented it; Hyundai, Kia and Genesis reportedly backtracked; Mercedes, Audi, Volvo, Polestar and BMW plan to keep basic CarPlay.
- Implementing Android Auto is not typically a major revenue source: Google is said to not charge for Android Auto and Apple reportedly asks a small fee for CarPlay integration.
- Automakers are concerned about third parties collecting vehicle-related data through Android Auto and CarPlay, including location and app usage.
- Established in-car app ecosystems (examples cited include Spotify and Google Maps) are seen as a strength of Android Auto and CarPlay.
- Some manufacturers (for example, Rivian and Tesla) already provide in-car experiences without Android Auto or CarPlay.
- Switching to manufacturer-controlled or forked platforms raises questions about app availability and update frequency.
What to watch next
- Progress and public releases around S-Core and whether the 2026 timeline for a more advanced version is met.
- How GM’s development and rollout of its Gemini-integrated system proceeds and the timeline for removing Android Auto/CarPlay from new models.
- Whether major app providers (Spotify, Google Maps, etc.) commit to alternative in-car platforms or third-party app stores — not confirmed in the source.
Quick glossary
- Android Auto: A Google-designed system that mirrors compatible apps and functions from Android phones onto a car’s infotainment screen.
- Apple CarPlay: Apple’s platform that enables iPhone apps and features to be used via a car’s built-in display and controls.
- CarPlay Ultra: A more extensive version of CarPlay intended to integrate more deeply with vehicle screens and systems.
- S-Core (Safety Open Vehicle Core): An open-source vehicle software backbone being developed by VDA member automakers to provide essential in-car services and allow manufacturer customization.
- Open source: Software whose source code is publicly available for use, modification and distribution by anyone.
Reader FAQ
Are Android Auto and CarPlay being removed from all new cars?
Not confirmed in the source. Some manufacturers plan to drop or limit support, but the shift is uneven and still unfolding.
Why are automakers abandoning these platforms?
Manufacturers are seeking greater control over vehicle systems and the data collected, and they are wary of ceding too much system access to Apple or Google.
Will popular apps like Spotify and Google Maps still work?
Not confirmed in the source. The article notes app availability is a potential concern and that alternative platforms could struggle to match current app ecosystems.
Is replacing Android Auto or CarPlay expensive for carmakers?
The source says implementing those systems isn’t typically a major revenue source for Apple or Google; installation and hardware carry costs, but licensing fees are reported to be small or absent.
When might these changes take effect?
Not fully confirmed in the source. GM’s shift is described as years away with work underway, and S-Core developers hope for a more advanced version in 2026.
Your next car might not have Android Auto or CarPlay — here's why Credit: Lucas Gouveia / Android Police | New Africa / Shutterstock By Mark Jansen Published 34 minutes ago…
Sources
- Your next car might not have Android Auto or CarPlay — here's why
- Why are car companies dropping Apple CarPlay?
- Why Automakers Are Ditching Apple CarPlay and Android …
- Why Are Cars Getting Rid Of Android Auto?
Related posts
- Recreated: Steve Jobs’s 1975 Atari horoscope program — now runnable
- Google to publish AOSP source twice yearly, a setback for custom ROMs
- Best Apple Watch Deals Right Now: Discounts on New and Recent Models