GM's software boss, Baris Cetinok, explains the controversial decision to remove Apple CarPlay and Android Auto from new GM vehicles, especially EVs. This episode dives into GM's strategy to develop its in-house Ultifi software platform to control the user experience, unlock new revenue streams, and compete with tech giants like Apple and Google in the automotive software space. It's a deep dive into the trade-offs and future vision for connected cars.
Key takeaways
GM is betting on its proprietary Ultifi software to control the in-car experience and generate new revenue streams, moving away from reliance on third-party integrations like CarPlay and Android Auto.
The decision to ditch CarPlay and Android Auto is driven by a desire for a more integrated and consistent user experience, and to integrate more deeply with features like Super Cruise.
GM aims to monetize its software through subscriptions, app stores, and enhanced features, much like tech companies.
There will be a significant impact on user experience, as customers will need to adapt to GM's native infotainment system, which presents both risks and opportunities for GM.
This move positions GM to directly compete with major tech companies like Apple and Google in the automotive software ecosystem, highlighting the increasing importance of software in vehicle differentiation and profitability.
Themes
ai & automationproduct & merchandisingdtc strategy
Today, I’m talking with Baris Cetinok, who is in charge of all the software in the cars that GM makes, which is a lot of cars. And if you’ve been following any of the drama in the world of car software, you know it also means Baris is the guy who has to defend GM’s decision to drop Apple CarPlay and Android Auto from most of its cars, especially EVs. I’ve had versions of this conversation with the CEOs of car companies before, but Baris is in charge of actually building this stuff. So we really got into the weeds here on what this looks like, the major trade-offs, and why he thinks it’s ultimately the right path for GM. Links: GM names new leaders of software organization | The Detroit News GM is cutting off access to Apple CarPlay & Android Auto for its future EVs | The Verge Will GM Regret Kicking Apple CarPlay off the Dashboard? | Bloomberg Rivian CEO: CarPlay isn’t going to happen | Decoder Volvo CEO thinks dropping CarPlay is a mistake | Decoder GM Ultifi software platform will roll out in 2023 | The Verge Android Auto vs. Android Automotive vs. Google Automotive Services | Android Police GM plans another big Super Cruise hands-free expansion | The Verge GM will start making money on EVs this year | The Verge How GM plans to beat Google, Apple at car software | Motor Trend Transcript: https://www.theverge.com/e/24049622 Credits: Decoder is a production of The Verge and part of the Vox Media Podcast Network.
Our producers are Kate Cox and Nick Statt. Our editor is Callie Wright. Our supervising producer is Liam James.
The Decoder music is by Breakmaster Cylinder.
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GM is betting on its proprietary Ultifi software to control the in-car experience and generate new revenue streams, moving away from reliance on third-party integrations like CarPlay and Android Auto.
What does this episode say about product & merchandising?
The decision to ditch CarPlay and Android Auto is driven by a desire for a more integrated and consistent user experience, and to integrate more deeply with features like Super Cruise.
What does this episode say about dtc strategy?
GM aims to monetize its software through subscriptions, app stores, and enhanced features, much like tech companies.
What does this episode say about ai & automation?
There will be a significant impact on user experience, as customers will need to adapt to GM's native infotainment system, which presents both risks and opportunities for GM.
What does this episode say about ai & automation?
This move positions GM to directly compete with major tech companies like Apple and Google in the automotive software ecosystem, highlighting the increasing importance of software in vehicle differentiation and profitability.
