Polestar, one of the first carmakers to use Google’s Android Automotive operating system for its electric vehicles, is now throwing bones at all iOS users. The company announced that its electric sedan Polestar 2 already supports Apple CarPlay, thanks to a recent update of the software over the air.
People who own both a Polestar 2 and an iPhone will now be able to reflect their phone’s display on the car’s 11-inch portrait-oriented touch screen. In addition to accessing some of their apps, CarPlay users will also be able to use Siri to change music or find locations on Apple Maps.
Polestar has made a name for itself by establishing a direct link with Apple’s main rival, Google
The introduction of CarPlay support is interesting because Polestar made a name for itself by establishing a direct connection with Apple’s main rival, Google. In addition to tarnishing its reputation for great minimalist design and powerful electrical performance, the carmaker’s decision to use Google’s native Android operating system is seen as a potential change in the game in the world of automotive software.
The most fun part of driving a Polestar is driving it, but there’s more. Our latest in-flight update for Polestar 2 comes with Apple CarPlay, which allows Polestar iPhone owners to change music, use apps and communicate via Siri or the infotainment system pic.twitter.com/mulkjIUR6D
– Polestar (@PolestarCars) June 22, 2022
Car companies have built Android infotainment systems in the past, but essentially had to branch out the open source operating system and build their own solution on top. A big advantage of this built-in approach is that customers get instant access to Android-approved apps like Google Maps, Play Music or Google Assistant without having to use their smartphones.
Another is that it has access to the car’s functions, which means it can control climate settings or send you maintenance alerts. This native version of Android can also be updated, which means that Polestar and Google can release software updates over the air to improve the car’s features long after it is sold.
But for those who prefer to live their digital lives exclusively within Apple’s software ecosystem, Polestar is ready to welcome you. The company also said it will support the expanded version of Apple’s next-generation CarPlay, which will be displayed on every available screen.
The majority of the automotive industry is taking a wait-and-see approach to Apple’s more authoritative vision for the future of CarPlay. But not Polestar.
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