International. The controversy generated by General Motors' (GM) decision to remove the popular Apple CarPlay and Android Auto apps from its electric vehicles has found a solution in the aftermarket.
A company called White Automotive has developed a kit that allows these features to be reinstated in new GM models, giving drivers back the customization experience they valued.
Since Apple introduced CarPlay in 2014, the integration of this technology and Android Auto into vehicles has become standard. Brands like Mercedes-Benz, Volvo, and Ferrari quickly adopted these apps, allowing drivers to sync their phones to access contacts, messages, music, and navigation from the car's home screen.
However, in its bid for a 100% electric vehicle lineup, GM decided to eliminate these apps in favor of its own subscription-based software. Although drivers can still connect their phones, the functionality was limited, generating discontent among users who had enjoyed almost a decade of access to these tools.
In response to this need, White Automotive designed a kit that resets Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in GM's latest electric vehicles, such as the Chevrolet Blazer, Equinox, Silverado, GMC Sierra and Cadillac Lyriq.
The kit, which is not plug-and-play, requires professional installation. Currently, only one workshop in Michigan is certified to perform this procedure, and the company has not yet disclosed the price, leading to speculation about its possible high cost.
While GM focuses on its technology and business strategy, this kit represents an alternative for those who value the convenience of screen mirroring applications. Although installation can be complicated and the cost uncertain, the solution promises to satisfy the most loyal users of CarPlay and Android Auto.
