General Motors blocks users from adding Apple CarPlay to electric vehicles

General Motors (GM) seems determined to keep Apple CarPlay out of its electric vehicles. Since 2023, the company has introduced new infotainment systems that don’t include the technology. More recently, it has gone even further, blocking a third-party alternative.

In November, White Automotive & Media Services released a kit that adds Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to GM’s Ultium electric vehicles. It works just as seamlessly as the original, supports both wired and wireless connections, and displays on every screen in the car. But it’s complicated to install, and only LaFontaine Chevrolet in Plymouth, Michigan, does the job in the entire country.

But the joy was short-lived, according to The Drive, GM forced White Automotive to stop supplying this product. They also asked the LaFontaine Chevrolet dealer to stop installing it immediately. A GM spokesperson explained that the kit could disrupt important safety features of the car and even void part of the warranty.

White Automotive previously announced on its website that it was forced to discontinue the product for “various reasons.” While it did not elaborate, it stressed that it was a difficult decision and thanked customers for their support.

What about those who already have them installed? At this point, no one knows for sure what will happen to them. But it’s likely that another software update from GM in the near future will render the kits obsolete.

GM’s move shows that they want to take full control of the EV user experience, rather than leaving customers to rely on Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. However, this also disappoints many fans, as these two technologies are very popular for their convenience and familiarity. Is GM betting too big on this strategy? Only time will tell.