Polestar now supports Apple CarPlay after over-the-air software update

Polestar, one of the The first automakers to adopt Google’s Android Automotive operating system For its electric vehicles, it is now casting a bone for all iOS users. The company has announced that the Polestar 2 electric sedan now supports Apple CarPlay, thanks to a recent over-the-air software update.

People who own both a Polestar 2 and an iPhone will now be able to mirror their phone’s screen to the car’s 11-inch touchscreen. In addition to accessing some of their apps, CarPlay users will also be able to use Siri to change music or search for locations on Apple Maps.

Introducing CarPlay support is interesting because Polestar has made a name for itself By creating a direct link to Apple’s main competitor, Google. In addition to honing its reputation for cool minimalist design and powerful electrical performance, the automaker’s decision to use Google’s native Android operating system was seen as a potential game-changer in the automotive software world.

Car companies have built infotainment systems on Android in the past, but basically they had to change the open source operating system and build their own solutions up front. A big advantage of this built-in approach is that customers get instant access to automatically approved Android apps like Google Maps, Play Music or Google Assistant without having to use their smartphone.

Another is that it can access the vehicle’s functions, which means it can control climate settings or send you maintenance alerts. This original version of Android is also upgradable, which means Polestar and Google can push software updates over the air to improve the functionality of the car long after it’s been sold.

But for those who prefer to live their digital lives exclusively within Apple’s software ecosystem, Polestar is ready to accommodate you. Moreover, the company said that it will support Apple’s more expansive version of the next generation of CarPlay, which will be displayed on every available screen.

Most of the auto industry Take a wait-and-see approach To Apple’s most attractive vision for the future of CarPlay. But not Polestar.