2015 will be the year that smartphone functionality integrates with in-dash infotainment and satnav systems and it looks like Chevrolet is investing heavily to bring new car owners access to their smartphone ecosystem of choice.
For the 2016 model year, Chevrolet will offer Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility in more models than any automotive brand. The 14 Chevrolet models include the all-new 2016 Cruze, which will debut on June 24. Cruze is Chevrolet’s best-selling passenger car, with more than 3 million sold since launch.
“For most of us, our smartphones are essential,” said Mary Barra, CEO of General Motors. “Partnering with Apple and Google to offer CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility across the widest range of models in the industry is a great example of how Chevrolet continues to democratize technology that’s important to our customers.”
"Chevrolet’s move to offer both Android and Apple systems on a long list of its popular models is a smart one. Technology in vehicles is extremely important to consumers, according to AutoTrader studies," says Michelle Krebs, Sr. Analyst, AutoTrader.
According to AutoTrader's study, 56% of vehicle owners would switch to a different car brand if the one they were considering didn’t offer the technology features they want. By offering both iOS and Android options, Chevrolet already has the upper hand over competitors that have pledged allegiance to on or the other ecosystems.
AutoTrader's finding also reveal that 69% of vehicle owners would rather a vehicle have the technology features they want as opposed to being the color they want.
Chevrolet’s seven-inch MyLink system gives owners a smart and simple way to access both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The eight-inch version of MyLink will be compatible only with Apple CarPlay at the beginning of the 2016 model year. While development and testing is not yet complete, Android Auto compatibility may be available on the eight-inch version of MyLink later in the 2016 model year.
Each system builds off of the features smartphone users rely on most. Android Auto is built around Google Maps, Google Now and the ability to talk to Google, as well as a growing audio and messaging app ecosystem that includes WhatsApp, Skype, Google Play Music, Spotify, and podcast players. A full list of supported apps is available at Android.com/auto.
Apple CarPlay takes the iPhone features you’d want to access while driving and puts them on the vehicle’s display in a smart, simple manner. That allows drivers to make calls, send and receive messages and listen to music right from the touchscreen or by voice via Siri. Apple CarPlay supported apps include Phone, Messages, Maps, Music and compatible third-party apps. A full list of those apps can be found at Apple.com/ios/carplay.
Source: GM