Cadillac and Chevy To Integrate Native Apple Music

Today, General Motors announced an exciting development for Cadillac and Chevrolet vehicles: the integration of Apple Music directly into their infotainment systems for select 2025 models. This decision marks a shift towards enhancing the in-car app experience, especially with the automaker's move away from popular mirroring services such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Over-the-Air Update for New Models

Starting with 2025 and newer models, Chevrolet and Cadillac will gain Apple Music capabilities via an over-the-air update. This innovation is part of GM’s OnStar Basics package, which is an eight-year complimentary feature on new vehicles. Eligible vehicles encompass the Cadillac CT5, Escalade IQ, and Vistiq for 2025 and 2026, as well as electric vehicles such as the Chevy Equinox EV, Blazer EV, and Silverado EV. Additionally, the Chevrolet Corvette, Suburban, and Tahoe are also included, with Buick and GMC slated to receive this feature in the near future.

Enhanced Audio Experience

For Cadillac users, GM highlights the leading-edge spatial audio available through Apple Music using Dolby Atmos. Particularly, the Cadillac Vistiq comes standard with a sophisticated 23-speaker AKG sound system designed to leverage Dolby Atmos' capabilities. This integration means that Chevy and Cadillac drivers can play their favorite tunes immediately upon entering their cars, bypassing the need to sync mobile devices, while also enjoying hands-free operation via the car's voice-command system.

GM’s Strategy in Native App Integration

According to Tim Twerdahl, Vice President of Global Product Management at GM, the introduction of Apple Music is part of a broader objective to enrich the entertainment offerings directly integrated into their vehicles. GM is one of the few manufacturers opting out of traditional phone projection technologies, arguing that their connected infotainment system delivers a superior user experience compared to third-party services like CarPlay and Android Auto.

Beyond Just Music: More Features to Come

In a move to further bolster its on-board technology suite, GM has also announced the forthcoming launch of Apple Wallet and Digital Keys support. While phone mirroring functions have been largely eliminated from GM’s electric vehicle lineup, the automaker confirms that they will maintain support for models with internal combustion engines that currently offer these capabilities, addressing customer feedback and preserving functionality for supported vehicles.