In a surprising statement, BMW revealed that its data shows drivers prefer the built-in navigation system in its cars over Apple Maps via CarPlay, raising questions about the future of smartphone integration in luxury cars.
Article contents:
- Debate over driver preferences
- What exactly does BMW claim?
- Why do drivers prefer the BMW system?
- The future of Apple CarPlay amid corporate resistance
- Why companies like Tesla and Rivian refuse to support CarPlay
- Integrated systems versus third-party apps: which is better?
- FAQs
Debate over driver preferences
Apple has invested heavily in CarPlay and clearly wants all iPhone owners to use it and all automakers to adopt it. CarPlay is the integration that occurs between your iPhone and your car when connected via a USB port, allowing you to access your phone’s functions via the car’s built-in display screen. This allows you to easily listen to your music, answer messages and calls, and use Apple Maps for navigation. But it appears that one of these key functions, navigation, is not the preferred choice for CarPlay users in BMW vehicles.
What exactly does BMW claim?
Stefan Durach, senior vice president of connected company and development UX/UI at BMW, revealed some interesting data regarding the frequency of CarPlay usage, especially for navigation purposes. This data is based on information gathered by BMW from 10 million vehicles, a sample size large enough to provide a good indicator of general driver behavior.
According to Durach in his interview with BMWBLOG, “People say they drive everywhere and use CarPlay for navigation. I can tell you, that is not true.” He added, “They start using our navigation system,” and “People still connect their phones to CarPlay, but only for specific use cases.”
So, even though drivers still use CarPlay for other purposes like messaging or music, they rely on BMW’s own navigation system instead of Apple’s. This preference for the car’s internal system is the likely reason why BMW does not intend to provide support for the new CarPlay Ultra version.
Why do drivers prefer the BMW system?
Durach emphasized that this shift is due to the ease of use of BMW’s navigation system, which includes an intuitive voice command system. The system also features “Routines” aimed at reducing the amount of manual interaction with the navigation system while driving. The system’s deep integration with other vehicle functions and its ability to display information simultaneously on multiple screens (such as the head-up display) appear to give it an advantage over the CarPlay experience, which can sometimes feel like an extra layer on top of the car’s core system.
The future of Apple CarPlay amid corporate resistance
Apple is now preparing to launch CarPlay Ultra, the latest version of CarPlay, which it claims has greater capabilities, deeper integration with the car, and a unique look tailored to each automaker. CarPlay Ultra began rolling out in May 2025 with Aston Martin, with plans for global expansion. But BMW’s statements indicate that not all automakers are convinced of the necessity of supporting this deep integration with smartphones.
Why companies like Tesla and Rivian refuse to support CarPlay
BMW is not the alone in showing hesitation. There are several vehicles where CarPlay may not be available at all. Tesla, for example, does not support it because it already has its own in-house system that performs the same tasks. Rivian is another innovative electric vehicle company that does not support CarPlay. RJ Scaringe, CEO of Rivian, explained that Rivian’s in-house system is comprehensive and very intuitive, with everything designed to work together seamlessly. But if drivers use Apple CarPlay, it takes them to a third-party app, they do not have full control over the vehicle’s capabilities, and they are forced to exit CarPlay to handle specific functions.
Integrated systems versus third-party apps: which is better?
This debate reflects a broader trend in the automotive industry. While some manufacturers see providing platforms like CarPlay and Android Auto as essential to meeting customer expectations, others, especially in the luxury and innovative segments, view building their own integrated software experience as an essential part of their brand identity. They are betting that their proprietary system can offer a better and more integrated experience than generic solutions. The future of smart cars with comprehensive internal systems may mean that smartphone connections like CarPlay and Android Auto will become a thing of the past.
FAQs
Q1: Will BMW stop supporting CarPlay entirely?
A1: No, BMW still supports the current version of CarPlay for functions like music and messaging. However, its statements indicate that it may not adopt future, more integrated versions like CarPlay Ultra, preferring to develop its own system.
Q2: What is CarPlay Ultra?
A2: It is the next generation of Apple CarPlay, aiming to take over all the car’s screens, including the instrument cluster, and provide deeper integration with vehicle functions such as climate and seat controls.
Q3: Can I add CarPlay to my older car?
A3: Yes, there are many aftermarket adapters and devices that can add CarPlay functions, including wireless versions, to cars that did not come with it from the factory, as long as they have a compatible screen.
