After General Motors' recent comment about Apple's CarPlay, Ford's CEO has released a statement about their continued commitment to keeping these hands-free infotainment systems in their cars. The main point of the Ford CEO is to keep drivers safe with these features, throwing shade against GM's latest statement and reinforcing their stand with these automotive mirroring systems.
Ford centers on using Apple and Google's tech for vehicles to connect users better with their devices, with each system specific to a device's operating system for the connection.
Ford Throws Shade Against GM for Removing Apple CarPlay
Jim Farley took his sentiments to X, posting his take on cars getting CarPlay and Android Auto in the infotainment systems, shading GM in the process.
Here, the Ford CEO regarded that it is keeping the smartphone link features for its vehicle lineup, arguing that through these systems, it helps the driver to "keep their eyes on the road and hands on the wheel."
This follows the recent statement by GM's Tim Babbitt which claimed that using CarPlay will improve safety as drivers will be "less likely to pick up their phones."
On the contrary, reports call this statement "dumb," as drivers are more likely to use their devices when driving if there are no smartphone link features available.
Ford Commits to Keep CarPlay, Android Auto for Safety
Farley then said that Ford is working closely with Apple and Google to make these features available, centering on safety for drivers despite getting this technology in their cars. Moreover, Farley flexed Ford's SYNC 4A, stating that it is the best experience available for a smartphone to car infotainment connections available in the market, featuring high-quality tech.
GM and Other Cars That Ditched CarPlay
For many months now, General Motors has affirmed its stand to remove Apple's CarPlay in their infotainment systems that will allow users to enjoy a hands-free experience for their in-car stereo. This effectively cuts down users who own an iPhone to connect to their GM-built cars to experience connections or opt for an aftermarket head unit that offers support.
Moreover, this is because GM has committed to using Google's infotainment system called the Android Automotive, with the Ultifi software.
However, GM is not the only company that gained notoriety for ditching the Apple CarPlay.
There is also Elon Musk's Tesla who also removed support for CarPlay and Google's Android Auto on its infotainment system to prioritize its self-made software.
Many argue that CarPlay is an essential feature on infotainment systems for all cars as it allows the user to get the experience in a larger view and avoid picking up the iPhone for different needs. However, GM remains firm on removing it, but not Ford, as the company committed itself to CarPlay's availability, offering a seamless and safe driving experience for all.
