Buick and GMC Partner with Apple Music for In-Car Entertainment

General Motors recently made headlines by expanding the availability of the Apple Music app in its vehicles. Initially rolled out in select Cadillac and Chevrolet models, the app is now also being introduced in certain Buick and GMC vehicles.

The expansion was quietly announced by GM, with no new press release issued. Instead, the company updated its original December announcement to include the full list of Buick and GMC vehicles that will now feature the Apple Music app. The list includes:

Buick:
– 2026 Enclave
– 2026 Envision

GMC:
– 2025–2026 Acadia
– 2025–2026 Canyon
– 2025–2026 Sierra EV
– 2025–2026 Terrain
– 2025–2026 Yukon and Yukon XL
– 2026 HUMMER EV SUV and HUMMER EV Pickup

GM has stated that the Apple Music app will start appearing automatically in these vehicles starting this week, bringing the total number of cars with access to Apple Music to 1.2 million.

In addition to the Apple Music app, GM has also made audio streaming a standard feature of its OnStar Basics service for all 2025 and newer cars. This means that GM drivers can stream music from Apple Music, Spotify, and other apps at no extra cost for eight years. However, access to these streaming services will require an active data connection via OnStar after the initial free period ends, unlike CarPlay which relies on the user’s iPhone data.

The decision to include the Apple Music app in GM vehicles is seen as a strategic move by the auto giant. Three years ago, GM announced that it would no longer offer Apple CarPlay in its new electric vehicles, opting instead for its own in-house infotainment system. This move was likely driven by the desire to have full control over the software in its vehicles, allowing for the development of subscription-based apps and services that could generate additional revenue.

Despite the benefits of GM’s in-house infotainment system, some iPhone users may miss out on certain CarPlay-exclusive features like Apple Maps and third-party apps. GM has defended its decision by emphasizing the integration of its infotainment system with other vehicle systems, such as the Super Cruise driver assistant, which can collect data on driving habits. This integration could potentially lead to significant revenue growth through a subscription-based model for GM services.

In 2023, a GM executive claimed that the new infotainment system was designed with driver safety in mind. However, some industry experts criticized this claim, pointing out that systems like CarPlay and Android Auto are actually intended to reduce distractions by minimizing the need to interact with mobile devices while driving.

Following the backlash, GM clarified its position, stating that it values its partnerships with Apple and Google and is committed to driver safety. The company’s decision to expand the availability of the Apple Music app in its vehicles reflects its ongoing efforts to provide innovative and convenient features for its customers.