If you’re a fan of Apple and own a General Motors vehicle (or are considering buying one), the recent product announcements from the company might not sit well with you, but there’s a small glimmer of good news. GM is launching a dedicated Apple Music app for its models that lack Apple CarPlay.
This may not appear significant, but for owners who have been forced to use their phones to manage their playlists on the road, this is a positive shift—and even better, you won’t incur any additional costs for this feature. It will be part of GM’s free “Onstar Basics” package moving forward. It may not be CarPlay, but it is a step up.
“OnStar Basics comes standard in all 2025 and newer models,” a GM representative informed The Drive via email. “There’s no extra fee with the vehicle purchase. This package includes automatic crash response, standard connectivity for voice assistance and navigation, remote functions through the mobile application like unlocking or locking the vehicle, and now integration with audio streaming apps. It covers an 8-year period.”
However, this feature won’t be available on every model right from the start, we were informed:
“This will be a gradual rollout, and we will provide a list of [see below] the specific models included in this initial phase,” the representative stated. “The goal is to make it available for all compatible GM vehicles—both ICE and EVs across different models—with the latest software.”
Cadillac vehicles that qualify will also feature Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos; they are the only vehicles equipped with the necessary hardware and software, according to our sources. All eligible vehicles will receive the relevant software updates through an over-the-air method.
Here’s a comprehensive list of GM vehicles that have the necessary hardware for native Apple Music. This was taken directly from the company’s announcement:
- Cadillac
- 2025 and 2026 CT5
- 2025 ESCALADE IQ
- 2026 VISTIQ, featuring Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos
- Additional vehicles on the way with immersive audio
- Chevrolet
- 2025 and 2026 Blazer EV, Equinox EV and Silverado EV
- 2026 Corvette, Suburban and Tahoe
- More vehicles to come, including the 2027 Chevrolet Bolt
- Buick & GMC
- Vehicles arriving soon
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**GM Launches Integrated Apple Music Feature to Lessen Dependence on CarPlay**
General Motors (GM) has made a noteworthy advancement in improving the in-vehicle entertainment experience by integrating Apple Music support throughout its vehicle range. This initiative aims to decrease the dependence on Apple CarPlay, providing a more cohesive and effortless method for users to access their preferred music while driving.
### The Move Towards Integrated Solutions
Historically, numerous drivers have depended on Apple CarPlay to link their iPhones to their vehicles, permitting access to applications, navigation, and music through the car’s infotainment system. While CarPlay has been a favored feature, it necessitates either a wired connection or wireless pairing, which can be inconvenient for those seeking immediate access to their music.
With the launch of built-in Apple Music support, GM is tackling this constraint by enabling drivers to stream music straight from the car’s infotainment system without the need to connect their smartphones. This integration simplifies the user experience and enhances safety by reducing distractions from managing devices.
### Advantages of Built-In Apple Music Support
1. **Effortless Access**: Drivers can conveniently access their Apple Music library, playlists, and curated stations directly through the vehicle’s touchscreen. This negates the need to struggle with a phone while driving.
2. **Voice Activation**: The integration supports voice commands, allowing users to operate their music hands-free. This feature promotes safety by enabling drivers to keep their focus on the road and their hands on the wheel.
3. **Offline Playback**: Users can save their favorite songs and playlists directly to the vehicle’s system, ensuring uninterrupted listening even in low-cellular coverage areas.
4. **Tailored Experience**: The system adapts to user preferences over time, delivering personalized suggestions and playlists based on listening patterns.
### Advantages for GM and Consumers
For GM, this initiative signifies a strategic edge in the competitive automotive landscape. By providing built-in Apple Music support, GM can appeal to tech-savvy consumers who value connectivity and entertainment options in their vehicles. This feature aligns with the growing trend of smart vehicles offering advanced technology and connectivity solutions.
For consumers, the advantages are evident. The ease of accessing music without needing a smartphone connection enriches the overall driving experience. Furthermore, the integration of Apple Music allows users to explore a vast array of songs, playlists, and podcasts, catering to various musical preferences.
### Conclusion
GM’s rollout of integrated Apple Music support represents a substantial leap in automotive technology, demonstrating the company’s dedication to enhancing user interaction. By reducing reliance on CarPlay and providing a more unified solution, GM is establishing a new benchmark for in-car entertainment. As the automotive sector continues to evolve, innovations like these will play an essential role in shaping the future of driving and connectivity.