Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe has already claimed that the company will avoid using Apple’s CarPlay, adjusting the focus on the exclusive software in-car experience. On that, Scaringe likened the decision to Apple developing its own operating systems in a bid not to use a competitor’s. This he explained could be compounded by the integration of CarPlay which in some ways hampers the ability of Rivian to deliver a seamless digital experience in the management of all car functions.
This makes Rivian stand with Tesla, and General Motors as some of the automakers who have decided not to offer CarPlay and Android Auto. The reasons for this decision include the need to fine-tune and update their own developed software more frequently, giving them more opportunities to influence direct communication with the users and the collection of information from them. The company chief cited the case of CarPlay, they may be interested in it if there isa large customer interest, however, it is not part of their plans.
This has attracted debate among users and especially for CarPlay since it is a much-needed feature all consumers who own Apple devices appreciate in their preferred car. However, Rivian feels their strategy will allow for a better, more controlled user experience in the long run