Overview
General Motors is rolling out Apple Music as a built-in app on select 2025 and 2026 Chevrolet and Cadillac models in the U.S. and Canada via an over‑the‑air update. The native integration runs directly on GM’s infotainment software as part of its ongoing move away from Apple CarPlay, with streaming enabled through OnStar Basics at no additional cost for up to eight years on eligible 2025-and-newer vehicles.
Vehicles in the first wave
- Cadillac: 2025 and 2026 CT5, Escalade IQ, Vistiq
- Chevrolet: 2025 and 2026 Blazer EV, Equinox EV, Silverado EV, Corvette, Tahoe, Suburban
GM says additional models, including the next-generation Chevrolet Bolt, will receive the app in future model years, and the rollout will expand to Buick and GMC in subsequent updates.
How it works
Apple Music runs natively within GM’s infotainment system rather than mirroring from a phone. The article reports that GM’s approach enables faster startup, voice control, and deeper interaction with vehicle hardware than phone-based projection systems (claims attributed to GM).
Connectivity and cost
Streaming for supported audio apps (music, podcasts, audiobooks, and news) is included through OnStar Basics for up to eight years from the purchase date on 2025-and-newer vehicles, avoiding use of a phone’s data plan. GM has not detailed how Apple Music account authentication or subscription management will be handled beyond the included connectivity.
Cadillac audio features
On equipped Cadillac models with premium audio, Apple Music supports Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos, described as delivering a three-dimensional, cabin-tuned listening experience. The article highlights multi-speaker AKG systems in vehicles like the Cadillac Vistiq; availability depends on the specific audio package (claimed benefits per GM).
Strategic context
This launch advances GM’s strategy to control the in-car software stack, consolidate services, and deliver features via over‑the‑air updates. While the shift away from CarPlay drew backlash when announced in 2023, GM argues that a native approach improves safety-related integration, speeds access to core functions, and ties entertainment and navigation more closely to vehicle systems (claims reported by the article).
What drivers can expect
- Apple Music available directly from the dashboard without connecting a phone via CarPlay.
- Over‑the‑air delivery—no dealership visit required.
- Included audio data for supported apps via OnStar Basics for up to eight years on eligible vehicles.
- Feature availability will expand across more GM brands and models over time.
