General Motors (GM) has officially discontinued its NGI infotainment app store for millions of vehicles built between 2017 and 2020 — a move that highlights exactly why Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are essential features for today’s drivers.
For years, GM argued that abandoning Apple CarPlay and Android Auto would offer a “better, more integrated experience.” But with this recent decision to disable its own app ecosystem, the carmaker has unintentionally proven the opposite: drivers want lasting, flexible, phone-based connectivity that doesn’t depend on the carmaker’s software updates or subscriptions.
GM’s Infotainment Shutdown: What Happened?
In late September, GM quietly pulled the plug on its NGI app store — the platform that allowed owners of Chevrolet, Buick, Cadillac, and GMC vehicles to download apps like Spotify, Weather Channel, or NPR directly to their infotainment systems.
This shutdown affects millions of vehicles, including popular models such as:
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Chevrolet: Camaro, Corvette, Silverado, Tahoe, Suburban, Malibu, Equinox, and more (model years 2017–2020)
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Buick: Enclave, Encore, Regal, Envision (2017–2021)
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Cadillac: Escalade, CTS, CT6, XT5, ATS (2017–2020)
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GMC: Sierra, Yukon, Acadia, Canyon (2017–2020)
While existing apps remain usable for now, they’re no longer supported. Once deleted or reset, they can’t be reinstalled — effectively leaving many infotainment systems as nothing more than glorified radios.
Why GM (and Others) Turn Away from CarPlay and Android Auto
GM isn’t alone in this trend. Carmakers like Tesla and Rivian also refuse to offer Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, preferring to push their own software platforms.
The motivation? Data and revenue.
By locking users into native infotainment systems, manufacturers can collect valuable driving data and sell subscription-based services — for features like navigation, remote access, or even heated seats — that Apple and Google provide for free.
But this strategy backfires when automakers discontinue support for older vehicles. Owners lose functionality, and the “connected experience” they were promised vanishes overnight.
The Problem with Built-In Infotainment Systems
Even the most advanced factory infotainment systems have a limited lifespan. Carmakers typically stop updating software after just a few years, even though most vehicles stay on the road for over a decade.
That means if your car relies on manufacturer-controlled software, you risk losing major features long before the car itself reaches the end of its life.
Imagine buying a $100,000 Cadillac Escalade (2020 model) and discovering five years later that the apps on your touchscreen no longer work — simply because the manufacturer stopped supporting them.
Why Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Are the Smarter Choice
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto solve this exact problem.
Instead of relying on outdated car software, your smartphone powers the experience. Whether you upgrade your iPhone or Android device, the apps and updates come directly from Apple or Google — not your car manufacturer.
That means your infotainment experience evolves with your phone, not your vehicle’s software version.
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Unlimited app compatibility: Use Maps, Spotify, Waze, WhatsApp, and more.
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Regular updates: Every iOS or Android update improves your CarPlay or Android Auto experience automatically.
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No subscription traps: You don’t need to pay extra for what your smartphone already provides.
TheCarPlayer.com — The Solution for Drivers Without CarPlay
If your GM vehicle (or any other brand) doesn’t have Apple CarPlay, you don’t have to be left behind. At TheCarPlayer.com, we offer plug-and-play Apple CarPlay retrofit modules compatible with a wide range of vehicles — from Chevrolet and Cadillac to BMW, Mercedes, Audi, and more.
Our modules integrate seamlessly with your car’s original display and controls, giving you:
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Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
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Support for apps like Spotify, Google Maps, and YouTube Music
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Plug & Play installation (no cable cutting or software coding)
With a retrofit CarPlay module, your infotainment system will never go obsolete — no matter what your manufacturer decides.
Final Thoughts
GM’s decision to shut down its infotainment app store is a powerful reminder that CarPlay isn’t just a luxury — it’s future-proof connectivity.
When carmakers can disable features at any time, Apple CarPlay gives drivers freedom, reliability, and the power to stay connected on their own terms.
Don’t let outdated software limit your driving experience — explore our CarPlay retrofit solutions today and future-proof your infotainment system.
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