Rivian Sticks to its Decision to Ditch CarPlay
Rivian is doubling down on its decision to create its own immersive infotainment experience, despite potential backlash from CarPlay fans. The company’s CEO, RJ Scaringe, believes that having a seamless digital experience is crucial, and that switching between CarPlay and Rivian’s native interface doesn’t make sense.
Key Points:
- Rivian’s infotainment system is based on the Android Automotive operating system and supports major apps like YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Music.
- The company plans to roll out several updates to its native infotainment setup over the next 18 months, including voice, messaging, and mapping features.
- Rivian accepts that it may lose some buyers by not offering Apple CarPlay, but is convinced that its decision will ultimately benefit customers.
The Reasoning Behind the Decision
Scaringe explained that Rivian wants to create a cohesive and personalized experience for its customers, and that having a single, integrated system is key to achieving this. He stated that the company is “very confident” in its decision and believes that customers will appreciate the seamless digital experience.
What’s Next for Rivian’s Infotainment System
Rivian plans to continue updating its infotainment system, adding features that will provide a “richer, better experience” for drivers and occupants. The company is working on integrating different applications and using data from the vehicle’s state, driving history, and external conditions to create a more intuitive experience.
Standing by the Decision
Scaringe acknowledged that not everyone will agree with Rivian’s decision, but believes that it’s essential to making a product as complex as a vehicle. He stated that the company is “really convicted on this” and is willing to accept that some customers may choose not to buy a Rivian as a result.
Future Updates
Rivian is already working on adding new features, including messaging and vehicle access functions. The company is committed to continuing to update and improve its infotainment system, with the goal of creating a unique and integrated experience for its customers.
