Ford to Still Feature Apple CarPlay as GM, Tesla Favors Android Auto or Own Infotainment Connections

Isaiah Richard, Tech Times 04 May 2023, 02:05 am

In one of the most surprising turnouts for cars and their smartphone connections, one US manufacturer is looking to remain its use of Apple CarPlay to support car owners of their iPhone connections with the infotainment system. This is a bold claim from Ford, which its CEO Jim Farley has confirmed earlier, with users given a chance to continue their connections in the future.

(Photo : Ford)

Ford to Still Feature Apple CarPlay on its Vehicles' Infotainment Systems

Ford has announced that it will continue to support Apple CarPlay in its infotainment systems for connecting smartphones to its cars, as revealed by its CEO in a recent discussion with the Wall Street Journal's Joanna Stern. This decision comes as a relief to many Ford drivers who rely on CarPlay.

Farley claimed that "70% of our Ford customers in the US are Apple customers. Why would I go to an Apple customer and say good luck?"

The executive made it clear that it will stick with Apple's CarPlay system in its infotainment features, one that would allow a massive percentage of users to continue to access their needs for connection.

WSJ's Stern claims that this decision from Ford and Farley "makes a lot of sense."

Twitter Error

GM, Tesla to Feature its Self-Made Smartphone-Car Links

In contrast, Tesla and General Motors have dropped support for CarPlay, opting instead to develop their proprietary infotainment systems. This move has left some customers frustrated, as they are now forced to use alternative solutions for connecting their iPhones or other smartphone brands to their cars.

Farley's comments center on these two companies, along with others who are looking to debut their proprietary connections to users, ending support for the likes of CarPlay and Android Auto.

By continuing to support CarPlay, Ford is hoping to maintain its competitive edge and provide a better driving experience for its customers.

Ford and its Vehicle Developments Now

Despite being famous for its cars equipped with V-type engines, Ford is one to center on electrification, with massive plans for the future, including an upcoming EV battery manufacturing plant in Michigan.

Apart from its electrification developments, Ford is looking to create more opportunities for Americans to make its component manufacturing and creation in-house, going back to its roots, and controlling more of what it delivers to the public.

Ford's decision also highlights the growing divide among car companies when it comes to infotainment systems. While some companies are favoring their proprietary systems, others are choosing to support third-party systems like CarPlay or Android Auto.

For now, it appears that Ford is firm to continue its support for CarPlay, with the company sending a message to its customers that it values their input and is committed to providing them with the best possible driving experience. It remains to be seen how other car companies will respond to this trend, but for now, it seems that Ford drivers can continue to enjoy the benefits of CarPlay in their cars.