GMC has added Apple’s new CarPlay vehicle integration system
to its 2016 Sierra, Yukon and Canyon, allowing occupants to seamlessly integrate the features they’d like to use while driving– like voice-to-text, music streaming, traffic updates and more– through an easy-to-use touchscreen and voice-capable interface.
And fear not Android users. Android Auto, a similar system meant for devices that run Android operating systems, will be available on some GMC models at the beginning of the mode year, while all Sierra, Yukon and Canyon will receive the system later in the year.
GMC vehicles equipped with an eight-inch touch-screen, like the aforementioned trio, will compatible only with Apple CarPlay at the beginning of the 2016 model year. Vehicles equipped with the seven-inch touchscreen, like some base Sierra
models, will offer both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay at the beginning of the 2016 model year. GMC expects Android Auto will be available on models equipped with the eight-inch screen later in the year.
Apple CarPlay allows users to make calls, send messages, and stream music using either the touchscreen or by voice via Siri. There are also lots of other third party CarPlay-supported apps available for download.
Similarly, Android Auto also allows users to send and receive calls and texts, with the added capability of Google Maps and Google now. Users can also talk to Google to search the internet, too. The system is also compatible with a host of other third party apps, like WhatsApp, Skype, Spotify, and more.
Both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay will be fully compatible with GM’s new 4G LTE in-car Wi-Fi system
, now offered on all 2016 GMC models, including Acadia and Terrain.