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20 Real Reasons Automakers Are Breaking Up With Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (And What They’re Replacing Them With)

Cameron Eittreim June 26, 2025

Automakers are making headlines as they distance themselves from Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, two platforms once hailed as the gold standard for in-car connectivity. This strategic pivot represents more than a simple tech upgrade—it’s a seismic shift with far-reaching implications for both the automotive and technology industries. As brands like GM, Tesla, and others chart a new course, drivers and tech enthusiasts alike are left wondering: Why abandon such popular systems, and what comes next? In this article, we’ll dive deep into the 20 real reasons behind this breakup and reveal the cutting-edge alternatives set to redefine the driving experience.

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1. Data Ownership and Monetization

Automakers recognize that in-car data is a goldmine, offering insights into driver habits, preferences, and vehicle usage. By relying on Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, they lose direct access to this information—along with lucrative opportunities to monetize it. According to The Verge, controlling this data allows manufacturers to develop new revenue streams, from personalized services to targeted ads, all without sharing profits or insights with tech giants.

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2. Custom Brand Experiences

A sleek car interior showcases a custom user interface on the infotainment screen, highlighted by the illuminated brand logo. | Photo by Erik Mclean on Pexels

Automakers are eager to craft distinctive digital experiences that reflect their unique brand identities. By moving away from the uniform look and feel of CarPlay and Android Auto, companies like GM are investing in platforms such as Ultifi. These proprietary infotainment systems offer tailored interfaces, exclusive features, and seamless integration with vehicle functions—helping brands stand out and foster stronger loyalty among drivers.

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3. Integrated Subscription Services

With the rise of in-car subscription services—from navigation and entertainment to advanced driver assistance—automakers are eager to manage and monetize these offerings directly. By controlling the infotainment ecosystem, they can introduce customized packages and recurring revenue streams without splitting profits with Apple or Google. As highlighted by CNBC, this approach lets manufacturers offer seamless, brand-specific features while maximizing their own bottom line.

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4. Advanced Driver-Assistance System (ADAS) Synergy

Modern vehicles increasingly rely on Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) to enhance safety and convenience. Automakers need infotainment platforms that can seamlessly integrate with these sophisticated systems, delivering real-time alerts and interactive controls. Third-party solutions like CarPlay and Android Auto often lack the deep integration required for optimal performance. By developing their own software, manufacturers can ensure that the infotainment and ADAS features work in perfect harmony, elevating the overall driving experience.

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5. Faster Software Updates and Customization

Proprietary infotainment systems empower automakers to deliver over-the-air updates rapidly and efficiently. Instead of waiting for Apple or Google to roll out changes, manufacturers can address bugs, enhance security, and introduce new features on their own schedules. According to Automotive News, this agility not only keeps vehicles up to date but also allows brands to quickly respond to customer preferences and technological advancements.

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6. Enhanced Security and Privacy Controls

Automakers are increasingly prioritizing data security and user privacy as vehicles become more connected. By building proprietary infotainment systems, they claim tighter control over sensitive information compared to third-party providers. This direct oversight allows manufacturers to implement robust privacy policies and security measures tailored to their vehicles, reassuring customers that their personal data is protected—and building greater trust in an era of growing digital vulnerability.

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7. Regulatory Compliance Challenges

Navigating the complex landscape of regional data and privacy regulations has become a top concern for automakers. By relying on their own infotainment systems, manufacturers can more easily adapt to varying legal requirements across different markets. As noted by Reuters, this control streamlines compliance and reduces the risks associated with outsourcing sensitive data handling to third parties, helping automakers avoid costly penalties.

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8. Improved Voice Assistants

Automakers are investing in advanced, vehicle-specific voice assistants—such as Mercedes’ MBUX—that offer a level of integration beyond what Siri or Google Assistant can provide. These proprietary systems respond to natural speech and control not just infotainment, but also climate, lighting, and driving modes. By tailoring voice technology to their vehicles, brands deliver a more seamless, intuitive, and satisfying user experience.

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9. Avoiding Platform Fragmentation

Supporting both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto requires automakers to juggle two separate ecosystems, increasing development complexity and testing demands. By creating a single, unified in-house platform, manufacturers streamline software updates, maintain consistent user experiences, and reduce compatibility headaches. This approach allows engineers to focus their resources on improving the core system, resulting in faster innovation and a smoother ride for all drivers, regardless of their smartphone choice.

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10. Monetizing In-Car Advertising

With proprietary infotainment platforms, automakers can take full control of in-car advertising and promotional content. This shift allows them to bypass Apple’s and Google’s ad networks, offering brands direct access to drivers through targeted offers, local deals, and branded experiences. By curating their own ad ecosystems, manufacturers can unlock new revenue streams and build exclusive partnerships—all while delivering content that’s more relevant to their customers.

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11. Reducing Big Tech Dependence

Automakers are motivated to reduce their dependence on Big Tech companies like Apple and Google. By developing and maintaining their own infotainment systems, manufacturers reclaim autonomy over their product roadmaps and digital strategies. This increased independence boosts their negotiating power, limits outside influence, and enables them to shape the future of in-car technology without being beholden to the priorities or policies of external tech giants.

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12. Seamless Hardware Integration

Proprietary infotainment platforms enable automakers to fully harness the capabilities of their vehicles’ hardware—such as cameras, sensors, and haptic feedback systems. Unlike third-party apps, these custom systems can provide deeper integration and more responsive features, from advanced parking assistance to immersive touch controls. This tight coupling ensures that digital experiences are optimized for each model, delivering a more cohesive and sophisticated driving environment for users.

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13. Enhanced Navigation and Mapping

Automakers are embracing next-generation navigation platforms, like GM’s collaboration with Mapbox, to deliver features tailored to modern driving needs. These systems provide real-time EV range calculations, charging station locations, and predictive routing—capabilities often missing from third-party options. By integrating advanced mapping directly into their infotainment, manufacturers can offer drivers smarter, more reliable guidance, especially as electric vehicles become more prevalent.

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14. Future-Proofing In-Car Tech

By developing their own infotainment platforms, automakers can swiftly embrace emerging technologies like augmented reality (AR) displays and advanced AI assistants. In-house systems allow for rapid prototyping and integration, ensuring vehicles stay at the cutting edge of innovation. Unlike CarPlay or Android Auto, which may lag in supporting new features, proprietary solutions give manufacturers the flexibility to adapt and evolve as tech trends accelerate.

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15. Global Consistency

Delivering a consistent user experience worldwide is challenging when relying on Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as feature availability and compatibility can vary by region. Proprietary infotainment systems allow automakers to maintain uniform interfaces and functionality across all markets. This global consistency simplifies support, ensures compliance with local requirements, and helps brands present a cohesive identity—no matter where their vehicles are driven or sold.

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16. Improved Reliability and Performance

Proprietary infotainment platforms eliminate the unpredictability of phone-dependent systems, which often suffer from connectivity hiccups and compatibility glitches. By controlling both the hardware and software, automakers can optimize stability, responsiveness, and performance. Drivers benefit from fewer dropped connections and smoother operation—especially important for critical functions like navigation and safety alerts. Ultimately, this approach delivers a more reliable and satisfying in-car technology experience for everyone.

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17. Better Customization for Fleets

For commercial customers—like logistics companies and rental agencies—customization is key. Proprietary infotainment platforms empower automakers to offer tailored solutions for fleet management, driver monitoring, and specialized navigation. Unlike generic third-party systems, in-house platforms can be configured with unique dashboards, remote controls, and reporting tools that suit specific business needs. This flexibility helps automakers attract lucrative fleet contracts and deliver real value to commercial clients.

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18. Streamlined Customer Support

When automakers own the infotainment platform, they can offer direct and efficient customer support for technical issues. Drivers no longer have to navigate the back-and-forth between car manufacturers and third-party tech companies when problems arise. Instead, a single point of contact ensures faster troubleshooting, clearer communication, and quicker resolutions—improving satisfaction and minimizing frustration for vehicle owners and service teams alike.

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19. Opportunities for Cross-Brand Partnerships

A team of executives from Amazon and a tech company discuss their new Alexa-powered infotainment system in a modern conference room. | Photo by Artem Podrez on Pexels

By moving away from Apple and Google, automakers can forge innovative partnerships with other technology leaders. A prime example is Stellantis’ collaboration with Amazon, which is bringing Alexa-based infotainment to millions of vehicles. These alliances enable automakers to expand connected services, integrate smart home features, and deliver experiences tailored to their customer base—without being limited by the boundaries of traditional smartphone platforms.

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20. Preparing for the Autonomous Future

As self-driving cars move closer to reality, the in-car interface will become the centerpiece of the passenger experience. Proprietary infotainment platforms give automakers the flexibility to design immersive entertainment, productivity, and communication features for autonomous journeys. By controlling the full digital environment, manufacturers can innovate rapidly and define what the future of mobility looks like—ensuring they’re ready for a world where drivers become passengers.

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What Are Automakers Replacing CarPlay and Android Auto With?

Instead of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, automakers are rolling out a range of in-house and collaborative infotainment platforms designed for deeper integration and richer experiences. Examples include GM’s Ultifi system, Mercedes’ sophisticated MBUX, and the open-source Android Automotive OS (distinct from Android Auto). Some brands, like Stellantis, are also partnering with Amazon Alexa. These platforms aim to deliver seamless connectivity, advanced navigation, and personalized features—reshaping the digital driving experience.

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The Road Ahead for In-Car Connectivity

The move away from Apple CarPlay and Android Auto marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of automotive technology. Automakers are seizing greater control over the connected car experience, prioritizing data, customization, and innovation. While this shift promises more seamless integration and unique features for drivers, it also sparks fresh competition with Silicon Valley. As these proprietary platforms mature, consumers can expect smarter, safer, and more engaging journeys.
Stay tuned—the future of in-car connectivity is just hitting the fast lane, and your next vehicle may be more personalized, powerful, and connected than ever before.

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20 Real Reasons Automakers Are Breaking Up With Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (And What They’re Replacing Them With)

1. Data Ownership and Monetization

2. Custom Brand Experiences

3. Integrated Subscription Services

4. Advanced Driver-Assistance System (ADAS) Synergy

5. Faster Software Updates and Customization

6. Enhanced Security and Privacy Controls

7. Regulatory Compliance Challenges

8. Improved Voice Assistants

9. Avoiding Platform Fragmentation

10. Monetizing In-Car Advertising

11. Reducing Big Tech Dependence

12. Seamless Hardware Integration

13. Enhanced Navigation and Mapping

14. Future-Proofing In-Car Tech

15. Global Consistency

16. Improved Reliability and Performance

17. Better Customization for Fleets

18. Streamlined Customer Support

19. Opportunities for Cross-Brand Partnerships

20. Preparing for the Autonomous Future

What Are Automakers Replacing CarPlay and Android Auto With?

The Road Ahead for In-Car Connectivity

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