GM to offer Android, Apple systems in many 2016 models

By TOM KRISHER
AP Auto Writer

DETROIT (AP) – By the end of the year, nearly every major automaker will begin offering Apple’s CarPlay or Google’s Android Auto systems that will allow a car’s dashboard screen to look and function like a smartphone.

General Motors made a big move Wednesday, announcing that both systems will be available in seven 2016 Chevrolet models starting in the summer. The Apple system will appear in seven additional models. Earlier in the week, Hyundai unveiled the Android system for the Sonata.

More brands from GM and others will quickly follow with one or both systems.

Experts say the move to phone-based software threatens the automakers’ own glitch-prone touch screens. It’s also an admission by automakers that people like the way their smartphones work more than they like in-car systems.

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