General Motors (GM) is moving further away from Apple and Google’s smartphone projection systems as it prepares for a new era of AI-powered vehicles.
The U.S. automaker has confirmed plans to end support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto across all its cars, including gas-powered and electric models.
GM CEO Mary Barra revealed to The Verge that the company’s new centralized computing platform, set to launch in 2028, will create a unified in-car experience that eliminates the need for phone projection.
The change will allow General Motors to control more of its digital ecosystem, from infotainment to driver assistance, and reduce reliance on third-party systems.
Gemini AI to Replace Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
In place of CarPlay and Android Auto, GM will expand its Android-powered infotainment system with Google’s Gemini AI assistant, launching in its cars, trucks, and SUVs starting next year.
The new assistant will be able to handle natural-language conversations, respond to complex requests, and perform vehicle-specific functions like adjusting climate settings or finding charging stations.
The Gemini integration was announced during the GM Forward event in New York City, alongside other major technology updates.
These include an overhaul of GM’s electrical architecture, a new automated driving system allowing hands-free, eyes-off driving, and the 2028 rollout of the company’s next-generation computing platform.
GM’s latest move follows its controversial 2023 decision to remove Apple CarPlay and Android Auto from its EV lineup, a choice that sparked backlash from drivers who prefer using their familiar smartphone apps for navigation and media.
GM’s Statement on CarPlay and Android Auto Support
Following widespread coverage, GM has clarified that existing vehicles are not affected by this transition.
“We are not making any changes to existing vehicles. If your car supports Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, that will continue. Both will remain available in all GM gas-powered vehicles for the foreseeable future,” said a GM spokesperson.
This clarification means current GM owners won’t lose access to CarPlay or Android Auto. The shift will apply gradually to future models, aligning with GM’s rollout of its next-generation platform.
Until now, GM’s gas-powered models have continued to support phone projection, but that will eventually change as the automaker standardizes its digital experience.
With Gemini, GM joins a growing list of automakers experimenting with generative AI assistants. Mercedes-Benz has integrated ChatGPT, Stellantis is working with Mistral, and Tesla has introduced xAI’s Grok into its vehicles.
