Tesla, Rivian, and GM continue to resist Apple CarPlay adoption
Major automakers Tesla, Rivian, and General Motors continue to withhold support for Apple CarPlay, relying instead on proprietary infotainment software. While GM faces consumer backlash and Tesla reportedly explores integration following updates to iOS, Rivian maintains its refusal. Industry analysts note that automakers increasingly seek to retain direct control over in-car digital ecosystems and valuable user data.
Key points
- Tesla, Rivian, and General Motors are the three major automakers that currently do not support Apple CarPlay in their vehicles.
- Reports indicate Tesla worked with Apple on mapping updates for iOS, sparking speculation about a potential future CarPlay integration.
- Rivian executives maintain their refusal to adopt the platform, continuing a strategy similar to Tesla's proprietary software approach.
- General Motors faces criticism and resistance from consumers after completely phasing out CarPlay in favor of its own built-in systems.
Despite high consumer demand for Apple CarPlay among global car buyers, three prominent automotive manufacturers continue to resist adopting the platform. Tesla, Rivian, and General Motors each rely on their own proprietary infotainment software, choosing to keep digital dashboard experiences entirely in-house.
Tesla has historically been a holdout, though recent reports suggest a potential shift. In November 2025, media outlets reported that Tesla was developing CarPlay integration. Subsequent updates to iOS included modifications aimed at improving Apple Maps alongside Tesla's autonomy features, though an official release date for CarPlay remains unconfirmed.
Meanwhile, Rivian maintains its stance against the software, with executives showing no current plans to alter their approach. General Motors has encountered notable pushback from drivers after stripping CarPlay support entirely from its newer electric vehicle line-up.
Industry observers note that these automakers are motivated by a desire to control user interfaces, preserve proprietary software ecosystems, and retain valuable in-car data streams. Whether consumer demand will eventually force a wider industry pivot remains uncertain.
Sources
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