Hyundai may be the first to offer Android Auto integration but for 2016, Chevrolet will offer 14 models with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, including the Volt electric sedan, Impala full-seized sedan, Corvette coupe and convertible, Colorado midsized pickup, and Tahoe and Suburban full-sized SUVs, among others.
The announcement comes on the heels of research from Strategy Analytics that shows 2.3 billion Smartphones in use globally, and increasing legislation to limit hand-held devices in more jurisdictions around the world.
The two-mode compatibility will initially be available with the MyLink infotainment system with seven-inch display on the Spark sub-compact, all-new 2016 Cruze compact, midsized Malibu, Camaro coupe and convertible, and Silverado pickups (including HD models). It will be available later on in the model year on MyLink systems with eight-inch displays. The models in which the connectivity will be offered represent over half of total Chevrolet sales, accounting for 24 million global sales.
Smartphone customers are divided on the superiority of their respective phones, with Android Auto taking advantage of superior maps apps (Google Maps) and easily transportable sources of entertainment, and Apple CarPlay taking advantage of the iPhone’s voice compatibility (Siri) and an extensive but proprietary music and podcast library.
MyLink grants eyes-free voice control over many features on both platforms, using a button on the steering wheel. The system works with iPhone 5 or newer models, and Android phones running Lollipop 5.0 or later. Chevrolet already offers 4G LTE connectivity across a range of vehicles, and has connected a reported half-million customers to high-speed Wi-Fi.