Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are undoubtedly the most significant technological revolution we have seen since the advent of smartphones. Regardless of the brand and model, these technologies smarten up your vehicle, seamlessly integrating it into your ecosystem and making it easier to use, gaining popularity among users. However, it seems that some car manufacturers are not pleased with this situation. One such company, General Motors, is ditching Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Here are the details…

General Motors Strategic Exit from Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

General Motors, known for its popular brands like Chevrolet, GMC, and Cadillac, is getting ready to eliminate Apple CarPlay and Android Auto from its vehicles. The reason behind this decision is safety concerns. The company points out that both services often require drivers to physically handle their phones for specific tasks. As a response, General Motors is partnering with Google to create a safer alternative.

This new service, completely focused on Google services, will not require any phone connection and will offer above-average performance in voice commands. As a result, drivers won’t need to worry about connection interruptions or having to look at their phones for any reason. While security is undoubtedly a crucial concern, General Motors is taking a serious risk, as the absence of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is a dealbreaker for many users today.

The technologies mentioned are extremely popular, not just as standard features in new vehicles, but also among owners of older car models who are incorporating Apple CarPlay and Android Auto through modifications. Moreover, criticisms are not only coming from users but also from the industry. Fo example Ford CEO Jim Farley, who recently criticized GM on Twitter, emphasizing their commitment to maintaining Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

So, is General Motors’ primary focus solely on safety? In reality, the signs suggest that the situation is more nuanced. Both CarPlay and Android Auto are essentially owned by Apple and Google. This means that the revenue generated from both platforms does not belong to GM. However, if the company insists on promoting its own service, making money from it becomes quite straightforward.

In fact, Edward Kummer, GM’s chief digital officer, acknowledged this in an interview with Reuters earlier this year, stating, “We do believe there are subscription revenue opportunities for us.” Nevertheless, it’s up to you to consider all these factors and decide what the truth is.

RELATED:

• Best smart luggage of 2023: Modobag, Weego, Incase & More
• Alldocube iWork GT 12: AMD 2-in-1 laptop, $100 off and free keyboard
• Aoostar R1 N100:  Intel N100 NAS / Mini PC with Windows 11 for $219
• Lenovo Legion Y700 2023: Save $100 on this 8-inch gaming Android tablet

(via)

The post General Motors Ditching Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for Money appeared first on Gizmochina.

Xiaomi is on track to launch its first electric car in 2024. The car, which is codenamed MS11, has recently passed Bluetooth Technology Alliance SIG certification, revealing more information about its configuration.

The car made it to the certification body with several different models of Xiaomi Car with IC4034-BD, IC4004-BD, IC4024-BD, IC4054-BD, IC4005-BD, and IC4015-BD. 

The listing confirms the presence of Bluetooth 5.2 and USB Media functionalities. And interestingly, the car will also support Apple CarPlay, which will allow users to connect their iPhones to the car’s infotainment screen. It provides an interface that allows you to control many applications of your smartphone directly on the screen of your car rather than having to hold it in your hand.

For example, when making a phone call, you can use the car’s built-in speakers and microphone to handle the sound. You will also be able to use the Siri voice assistant when your phone is connected via CarPlay, allowing you to use the system hands-free.

The certifications also show the car will be powered by Qualcomm’s automotive chipset, the Snapdragon 8295. This chip is expected to offer up to 8 times the performance of the previous generation Snapdragon 8155. Other rumored features include a 101 kWh battery and support for 800 V high voltage fast charging.

The Xiaomi Car is expected to be priced between  260,000 yuan and 350,000 yuan (36,400 – 49,000 USD).

Related:

• Xiaomi Partners Up with Padget Electronics in India to Reinforce Position in the Market
• Xiaomi launches the MIJIA Aluminium Frame Suitcase with a sturdy build
• Xiaomi launches new products in Chile, including Watch 2 Pro, Pad 6, and more
• Xiaomi is testing the MIUI 15 stable update on Xiaomi 13
• Xiaomi crowdfunds the new MIJIA Smart Electric Steamer
• Xiaomi Redmi G27 and G27Q gaming monitors with 1080p/ 1440p resolutions announced in China

(Via)

The post Xiaomi’s first car to support Apple CarPlay, surprising many appeared first on Gizmochina.