Rivian believes that Apple CarPlay is now outdated, and the reason for this is AI.

      Rivian has reiterated its contentious choice to forego Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, asserting that the evolution of in-car technology is moving past smartphone mirroring altogether. The company's software leaders suggest that rapid advancements in artificial intelligence could soon render the entire CarPlay discussion moot.

      These remarks come as Rivian focuses on developing its own AI-driven vehicle software ecosystem rather than utilizing Apple’s widely used in-car platform. The company has faced criticism over the years from consumers eager for CarPlay support, but Rivian now contends that AI assistants will ultimately take over many functions that drivers currently perform with their smartphones.

      Rivian aims to make vehicles ‘AI-defined’ rather than app-driven

      In an interview on The Verge’s Decoder podcast, Rivian Chief Software Officer Wassym Bensaid explained that advancements in AI are transforming user interactions with vehicles. He suggested that comprehensive AI integration within cars could render conventional app-based systems like Apple CarPlay obsolete.

      Bensaid indicated that Rivian envisions a shift from cars being “software-defined” to “AI-defined.” The company believes that future AI assistants will manage tasks like navigation, music, messaging, and scheduling through natural conversation and contextual awareness, rather than requiring users to open individual applications.

      This concept is already beginning to materialize with the introduction of Rivian Assistant. This AI-enhanced voice system can manage vehicle controls, respond to inquiries, access calendar data, send messages, and interact with connected services using natural language. Rivian emphasizes that this assistant is thoroughly integrated into the vehicle, as opposed to functioning merely as an additional app layer.

      Rivian argues that systems like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto create a disjointed user experience by essentially embedding a smartphone interface in the vehicle. Instead, Rivian prefers to maintain full control over its vehicle software experience, enabling AI to directly engage with the car’s systems, sensors, navigation, climate controls, and future connected services.

      This position is still contentious. Apple CarPlay remains one of the most sought-after features among numerous EV purchasers, and Rivian has previously recognized that a sizable segment of its customers initially desired support for it. However, the company asserts that interest has waned as its native software experience has advanced.

      Why this is significant

      The discussion extends well beyond Rivian itself.

      More automakers are striving to manage their software ecosystems, opting not to delegate essential elements of user experience to Apple or Google. These companies view software, subscriptions, AI services, and connected features as potential revenue sources, enhancing the value of in-house platforms over third-party integrations.

      At the same time, AI is emerging as a crucial area of competition within vehicles. Rivian’s approach reflects a broader trend in the industry, with manufacturers investing significantly in voice assistants, autonomous capabilities, and AI-infused interfaces that understand context rather than merely executing commands.

      What lies ahead

      Rivian is likely to continue expanding its AI ecosystem, particularly with the arrival of upcoming models like the Rivian R2 and forthcoming software updates.

      Whether AI can genuinely replace the ease and familiarity of Apple CarPlay is still uncertain. Many drivers maintain a preference for the apps, navigation systems, and media services they utilize daily.

      However, Rivian's message is becoming increasingly pronounced: rather than incorporating CarPlay into its vehicles, the company aims to develop something it believes will ultimately render CarPlay unnecessary. The crucial question remains whether customers will concur.