General Motors has officially confirmed that it will remove Apple CarPlay and Android Auto from all of its future vehicles, including gas-powered models. The change expands GM’s earlier decision from 2023, when it began phasing out phone projection in its electric lineup, and marks a major shift toward a unified in-house software system.
In a recent Decoder interview with The Verge’s Nilay Patel, GM CEO Mary Barra said that as each new vehicle is redesigned or updated, support for CarPlay and Android Auto will be dropped. The move will apply across all GM brands, including Chevrolet, Cadillac, Buick, and GMC. Barra explained that the company’s upcoming centralized computing platform, set to launch in 2028, will allow GM to deliver faster updates and build a consistent digital experience across both electric and gas vehicles.
Chief Product Officer Sterling Anderson defended the decision, comparing it to Apple’s removal of the disk drive. He said that while many users initially resisted Apple’s transition to flash storage, it ultimately became the standard. GM, he argued, is following a similar path by moving away from phone mirroring toward a native system designed to integrate directly with vehicle hardware, navigation, and infotainment functions.
GM’s new software will be powered by Google’s Gemini AI, enabling natural voice interactions and advanced personalization. The company says that this assistant will allow drivers to ask for directions, get maintenance updates, or even find restaurants using conversational prompts. In the future, GM plans to develop its own proprietary AI, fine-tuned for each vehicle and integrated with OnStar’s connected services.
Although GM is cutting ties with CarPlay, it maintains that its relationship with Apple remains strong. Barra confirmed that Apple Wallet car key support will arrive soon, allowing iPhone and Apple Watch users to lock, unlock, and start their vehicles digitally. When asked about Apple Music integration, however, she declined to share details.
The 2028 Cadillac Escalade IQ will be the first vehicle to launch with GM’s centralized software system. From that point forward, all new GM vehicles will operate without Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. The company believes this transition will give it greater control over the in-car experience and unlock deeper integration between its vehicles and digital ecosystem.
For many iPhone users, though, the decision represents a major loss of convenience. CarPlay has become an expected feature in modern vehicles, offering a familiar interface and seamless app connectivity. GM’s gamble is that drivers will eventually see value in a native platform built for their cars rather than their phones. Whether that bet pays off will depend on how effectively its new AI system delivers on the promise of a smarter, more connected drive.
