General Motors will begin phasing out Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in future all-electric models starting with the 2024 Blazer EV in order to gain access to more consumer and EV charging-related data, Reuters reports. Why bypass the two technologies? Because both allow drivers the ability to override vehicles' infotainment systems, thus blocking access to some of their data.

To put it more simply, both of those systems allow drivers to "mirror" their smartphone screens to a vehicle's infotainment display screen but GM wants to develop its own built-in infotainment systems with assistance from Google. Future EVs - combustion-engined vehicles will retain their existing Apple CarPlay and Android Auto setups - will come standard with an on-board navigation system and infotainment systems, both of which are currently being designed as part of the company's collaboration.

While Android Auto will not be a part of future GM EVs, Google will continue to play an integral role. So where does that leave Apple? Definitely not in the best position in the battle against its Google rival for dominating the market for infotainment technology and the gathered data. GM's relationship with Google is nothing new. It's been working with the technology and internet giant since 2019 to develop software that can be integrated with its Super Cruise self-driving technology. The carmaker is also working to put into place a strategy for its upcoming EVs to serve as platforms for digital subscription services.

"We have a lot of new driver assistance features coming that are more tightly coupled with navigation," Mike Himche, executive director of digital cockpit experience, said. "We don't want to design these features in a way that are dependent on [a] person having a cellphone."

Future GM EV buyers will have full access to Google Assistant and Google Maps at no additional cost for the next eight years. The upcoming new system will still retain must-haves like Spotify, Audible, and other popular applications consumers currently use and will continue to demand.

Another key reason why GM is going in this direction is that it has identified "subscription revenue opportunities" valued at billions of dollars. What's also vital to know is that drivers will also retain the ability to listen to music and make phone calls with both iPhones and Android smartphones, though Bluetooth will be required.