Carmaker BMW has officially confirmed that it will not offer support for Apple’s next-generation CarPlay Ultra platform in any of its vehicles.
The automaker had previously remained neutral to the idea of including the system in its vehicles, saying:
Currently, we have placed a clear focus on further enhancing our iDrive user interface system and, as part of this development, will continue the seamless integration of Apple’s ecosystem. Integral to these efforts will be an evaluation of how the latest innovations announced at WWDC can be integrated into our solutions.
Now, BMW Blog reports that a BMW company spokesperson has told it that “BMW currently has no plans to integrate Apple CarPlay Ultra.”
In its place, BMW will use its own iDrive X platform, which will launch later this year on the BMW iX3, and will be included in all Neue Klasse models going forward, eventually making its way into every vehicle in the BMW lineup.
iDrive X boasts includes what BMW calls the “Panoramic Display,” displaying contextual information along the lower edge of the vehicle’s windshield.
BMW will continue to offer support for standard CarPlay and Android Auto, limiting that information to the main infotainment display.
CarPlay Ultra, which was unveiled during WWDC 2022, offers a more integrated and immersive in-vehicle experience, expanding to take over the entirety of the vehicle’s displays. Drivers can use the system to view and control vehicle functions, such as entertainment and climate controls, all via a single interface.
Other automakers that have decided not to use the system in their vehicles include Renault, Polestar, Mercedes-Benz, and Volvo.
However, several car companies that are still expected to offer the system in their vehicles, including:
- Acura
- Aston Martin
- Ford
- Genesis
- Honda
- Hyundai
- Infiniti
- Jaguar
- Kia
- Land Rover
- Lincoln
- Nissan
- Porsche
Of that list, only Aston Martin has actually shipped any vehicles with the system installed. The other carmakers have not announced a timeline for their adoption.
