Apple and Google are duking it out for control of the dashboard. Both are working with automotive and tech partners to create automotive versions of the applications consumers use on tablets or phones to work on an in-car infotainment interface.
Apple CarPlay has added nine more automakers to its stable, including: Audi, Abarth, Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, Jeep, Mazda and Ram. They join automakers like BMW, Chevrolet, Ford, Nissan, Toyota and others who say they will support CarPlay in future vehicles. Most haven’t nailed down a release date, however Audi recently said the technology support would be included in some of its 2015 models.
Many of the same automakers are part of Google’s Android-based Open Automotive Alliance and pledge to support both Apple and Android-based infotainment systems. The alliance, formed in January with founding partners Audi, GM, Google, Honda, Hyundai and NVIDIA too, has grown. It now lists 28 automaker and 16 technology partners like Alpine, Clarion, Delphi, Harman, Kenwood, LG, Panasonic and Pioneer.
Five automakers — Ferrari, Honda, Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz and Volvo — have said they plan to bring Apple CarPlay support to vehicles in their 2014 product lines.
Radio and music-related apps supported so far by CarPlay include Beats Music, iHeartRadio, Spotify and Stitcher.
