Particle.news

Third-Party Adapter Restores CarPlay and Android Auto to GM EVs

EV Play sells a $199 LT and a $425 Max that plug into many 2024–2026 GM electric vehicles to return phone projection while the company warns GM could disable the workaround.

Overview

  • EV Play made its adapters publicly available on Friday, June 5, and the company says the LT ($199) and Max ($425) work with many 2024–2026 Chevy, GMC, and Cadillac electric models.
  • The LT streams wired and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to a vehicle by running a companion app on the car’s Android Automotive system and plugging a USB device into the infotainment port.
  • The higher-end EV Play Max adds streaming apps, an HDMI input for game consoles, and Bluetooth support so the car’s screen can be used for media and gaming.
  • EV Play cautions that General Motors has the technical ability to disable the adapters and notes a past third-party fix was curtailed after GM asked dealers to stop installing it.
  • The dispute highlights a wider industry shift where automakers push native systems that can access vehicle functions like navigation, charging and driver aids while some owners and aftermarket firms seek to preserve phone-based interfaces.