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BMW Bypasses CarPlay Ultra in Favor of Proprietary iDrive System

Debuting its revamped interface on the upcoming iX3, BMW will restrict standard smartphone integration to the central screen.

Overview

  • BMW AG confirmed it has no plans to integrate Apple CarPlay Ultra in any of its upcoming vehicles.
  • The company is prioritizing its revamped iDrive X platform, which debuts on the BMW iX3 and will expand to all Neue Klasse models.
  • Standard CarPlay and Android Auto will be restricted to the main infotainment screen rather than spanning panoramic or heads-up displays.
  • Since its exclusive rollout in Aston Martin models this May, CarPlay Ultra has yet to secure support from over 20 other automakers.
  • Major brands cite control over user experience and in-car data monetization as reasons for passing on CarPlay Ultra, while Apple maintains that it does not collect additional vehicle data beyond existing telemetry.