General Motors is largely phasing out Apple CarPlay and Android Auto across its lineup in favour of native infotainment systems built around Google's Gemini AI assistant, a controversial industry-wide shift critics see as paving the way for subscription models and data harvesting. However, the 2027 Cadillac Lyriq will reportedly buck this trend, retaining support for both phone-mirroring platforms, making it the only GM electric vehicle sold in North America to do so. The exception raises questions about whether GM's broader strategy could soften over time, even as it insists its in-house system offers a smoother, more capable driving experience.

GM CEO Mary Barra confirmed last year that CarPlay and Android Auto would be dropped from petrol-powered models too, following their removal from EVs such as the Chevy Silverado EV Work Truck and GMC Hummer EV in 2023 and earlier this year. GM aims to roll out its custom Gemini-powered assistant by the end of 2026, with Barra citing customer feedback that switching between GM's system and third-party apps felt "clunky". Cadillac, meanwhile, says it kept the Lyriq's phone-mirroring compatibility "based on customer feedback", though it is unclear why this reasoning hasn't extended to other models. For drivers of other GM EVs who miss the feature, a third-party device called the EV Play LT offers wired and wireless phone mirroring for $199.99 with no subscription required.