### GM’s Departure from Android Auto and CarPlay: A Third-Party Solution Arises
In a notable shift that has ignited substantial discussion among car enthusiasts and everyday motorists alike, General Motors (GM) has declared that its forthcoming vehicles will not incorporate popular smartphone integration systems, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Instead, GM is transitioning to Google’s Android Automotive platform, a decision that has engendered significant dissent from consumers who appreciate the ease and familiarity of the current systems.
#### GM’s Choice and Consumer Response
In March 2022, GM garnered attention when it disclosed that its future electric vehicles (EVs) would skip both Android Auto and CarPlay. This revelation was met with considerable backlash, as numerous drivers voiced their discontent regarding the loss of these widely-adopted features. The criticism compelled GM to repeatedly justify its choice, highlighting the advantages of adopting Android Automotive, which provides a more integrated and customized experience for users.
Regardless of GM’s reasoning, the omission of Android Auto and CarPlay in their new Ultium EV lineup has left many prospective buyers feeling excluded. These platforms are more than mere conveniences; they embody an essential component of modern driving, enabling users to access navigation, music, and communication applications directly through their vehicle’s infotainment system.
#### A Third-Party Solution: White Automotive & Media Services
Acknowledging the need for these capabilities, White Automotive & Media Services (WAMS), a company based in Michigan, has presented an encouraging solution. WAMS has created a third-party kit that allows the use of Android Auto and CarPlay in GM’s new Ultium EVs, including models such as the Chevy Blazer EV, Equinox EV, and Silverado EV.
WAMS’s kit seamlessly integrates with the vehicle’s primary display and instrument panel, providing a fully operational experience. According to WAMS, the upgrade features both wired and wireless options for CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring that users can access the same functionalities they are used to without compromising the vehicle’s current features. The integration also accommodates features like on-screen navigation, media display, and even turn-by-turn navigation instructions on the vehicle’s heads-up display (HUD), if available.
#### Installation and Accessibility
At present, the installation of this third-party kit is restricted to a Chevrolet dealership in Plymouth, Michigan. WAMS has opted for this strategy to guarantee that customers receive top-notch service during the upgrade process. The company contends that collaborating with an OEM dealer is vital for upholding quality and customer satisfaction. While the kit is currently available only at this location, WAMS has expressed intentions to broaden its reach to additional sites in the future.
Regarding pricing, WAMS has not revealed specific costs, leaving prospective customers to contact the dealer directly for further details.
#### Conclusion
GM’s choice to distance itself from Android Auto and CarPlay has certainly stirred the automotive sector. Nevertheless, the advent of a third-party solution from WAMS provides a ray of hope for those seeking to maintain the familiar features of these platforms in their new GM vehicles. As the automotive landscape continues to change, striking a balance between innovation and consumer preference will remain crucial in shaping the future of vehicle technology. For the moment, drivers eager for a smooth integration of their smartphones with their vehicles can investigate this new option, ensuring they remain connected while on the move.
