Rivian has announced Apple Music is coming to its vehicles. This addition comes after Rivian decided not to adopt Apple CarPlay in favour of maintaining control over the in-car infotainment experience.
Starting today, Rivian owners can stream Apple Music natively through their vehicle’s infotainment system. But there is a catch as this feature is tied to Rivian’s Connect+ subscription service. The Connect+ platform, introduced in June 2024, provides cellular connectivity, enabling in-dash streaming of various media apps including Apple Music, Spotify, and TuneIn. Connect+ also allows the vehicle to function as a Wi-Fi hotspot, providing internet access for other devices while on the go.
The service costs C$19.99/US$14.99 per month or C$199.99US$149.99 annually, but Rivian is offering a two-month free trial to owners in both Canada and the United States.
Apple Music integration in Rivian vehicles also includes support for spatial audio and Dolby Atmos. This feature is available to Rivian vehicles equipped with the in-house designed Premium Audio sound system. Spatial audio transforms the music experience by creating a more three-dimensional soundscape, making it feel as if the music is surrounding the listener rather than coming from just one direction.
For those who prefer not to subscribe to Connect+, Rivian offers a workaround. Owners can connect their vehicles to an external Wi-Fi hotspot to access Apple Music and other streaming services. Alternatively, traditional methods like connecting via Bluetooth remain available, though they lack the advanced features of the integrated system.
Rivian is not alone in its decision to forgo Apple CarPlay, a popular feature among many automakers. GM has also moved away from CarPlay, citing safety concerns, while Tesla has never contemplated its use, also opting to stick with its own OS and instead offer Apple Music as a service.
More seamless entertainment is coming to your Rivian. Connect+ brings integrated streaming access to your @AppleMusic and Audible subscriptions, and when paired with Rivian Premium Audio, enjoy your favorite music and stories in @Dolby Atmos.​
— Rivian (@Rivian) August 13, 2024
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