Mercedes Refuses to Hand Over Control to Apple CarPlay

Mercedes has taken a stand against allowing Apple CarPlay to completely take over its vehicles’ infotainment systems. Unlike General Motors, Mercedes will still offer the standard versions of CarPlay and Android Auto to drivers. However, the automaker plans to collaborate with tech companies to develop custom features, such as a unique navigation app, for its vehicles.

Mercedes Stands Firm

In 2022, Apple announced that CarPlay would have the ability to dominate all screens in a vehicle, including the instrument display. Despite this, Mercedes CEO Ola Kallenius stated that the company will not relinquish full control of its infotainment system to Apple. According to Kallenius, a holistic software architecture is essential to meet customer demands for a seamless infotainment experience, but Mercedes believes that complete control by Apple is not the solution.

Collaboration with Tech Companies

While Mercedes is open to working closely with tech companies like Google Maps to create custom features for its vehicles, the automaker is committed to maintaining control over its infotainment system. This approach differs from companies like General Motors, which have decided not to offer Apple CarPlay or Android Auto in their upcoming electric vehicles.

Future of Infotainment Systems

While some automakers like Porsche and Aston Martin are embracing the immersive experience offered by Apple CarPlay, Mercedes remains focused on providing a tailored experience for its customers without ceding control to external companies. By striking a balance between innovation and autonomy, Mercedes aims to deliver a unique infotainment experience that meets the evolving needs of its drivers.