Rivian, the electric vehicle manufacturer, has announced a software update that adds native Apple Music streaming support to its vehicles, but at a cost. The move comes as the company continues to distance itself from phone mirroring features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Rivian's CEO, RJ Scaringe, has previously stated that CarPlay "can't leverage other parts of the vehicle experience" and "takes control away from automakers". The company's approach prioritises its own software and services, which are now accessible through a paid subscription model.
The new native Apple Music app, featuring spatial audio and Dolby Atmos support, requires Rivian's Connect Plus data subscription, launched in June. This subscription is also needed for Gen 2 vehicles to access "native app experiences like Apple Music and streaming connectivity no matter where the vehicle travels", according to Rivian product spokesperson Courtney Richardson.
However, the company's decision has raised questions about the fairness of charging for features that were previously available for free. While earlier Rivian vehicles offered access to streaming apps like Spotify without an additional subscription, the new policy means all owners of the R1T and R1S models will now need Connect Plus for on-the-go media streaming and to use the vehicle's built-in Wi-Fi hotspot. This includes features such as TuneIn, Amazon Audible, and upcoming native YouTube and Google Cast support.
To ease the transition, Rivian is offering a two-month free trial of Connect Plus for all owners. After the trial period, the subscription will cost £11.99 per month or £119.99 annually.
Rivian isn't alone in its shift towards subscription-based services for vehicle features. Tesla similarly transitioned from unlimited data to a £79 annual Premium subscription, although early owners were grandfathered into unlimited plans.
While Rivian's approach may seem like a trend, it contrasts with the convenience of CarPlay and Android Auto, which provide seamless integration of phone features and apps on the car's display. For those not wanting to subscribe to Connect Plus, RivianTrackr reports that native media apps will work when connected to a separate Wi-Fi hotspot. Alternatively, drivers can opt for a more traditional approach by mounting their phone and using Bluetooth for audio connectivity.
The move highlights the evolving landscape of car connectivity, where automakers are increasingly seeking to monetise features that were once seen as standard. As a result, owners of Rivian vehicles will have to decide whether the convenience of integrated apps is worth the additional cost or if they prefer a more traditional approach to media streaming in their vehicles.
