The electric vehicle manufacturer Rivian has taken a unique approach to in-car connectivity by not offering phone mirroring features like Apple CarPlay in its vehicles. Instead, Rivian is pushing a new software update that adds built-in Apple Music streaming support. This decision stems from Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe’s belief that CarPlay takes control away from automakers and cannot leverage other parts of the vehicle experience.
Last month, Rivian introduced its new Connect Plus data subscription, which is required for Gen 2 vehicles to have native app experiences like Apple Music and streaming connectivity regardless of where the vehicle travels. This move indicates a shift from the previous data services provided through the Rivian Membership, which the company is phasing out. All R1T and R1S owners will soon need to subscribe to Connect Plus to access media apps on the go and utilize the vehicle’s built-in Wi-Fi hotspot.
To facilitate the transition to the new subscription model, Rivian is offering a two-month free trial of Connect Plus to all owners. This trial period allows drivers with Apple Music subscriptions to enjoy the car’s built-in data services before committing to a monthly or annual subscription fee. After the free trial ends, Connect Plus will cost $14.99 per month or $149.99 annually.
Rivian is not the only electric vehicle manufacturer moving towards connectivity subscriptions. Tesla, for example, has shifted from offering unlimited data on its vehicles to a $99 per year Premium subscription. While both Rivian and Tesla do not support CarPlay or Android Auto, which mirror a phone’s screen on the car’s display, they are encouraging customers to opt for their proprietary connectivity services.
For customers who are not looking to pay extra for connectivity subscriptions, RivianTrackr reports that native media apps can still function when connected to a separate Wi-Fi hotspot. Additionally, users can choose to mount their phones and connect audio via Bluetooth for a more traditional in-car entertainment experience.
The introduction of connectivity subscriptions in electric vehicles, as seen with Rivian’s Connect Plus service, reflects a broader trend in the automotive industry. Automakers are increasingly focusing on providing proprietary in-car connectivity services to enhance the overall driving experience. While some customers may resist the idea of paying extra for these services, the convenience and features offered by these subscriptions may ultimately sway them towards adoption.
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