Rivian’s latest software update is shifting gears in the in-car entertainment landscape. The electric vehicle manufacturer has rolled out native Apple Music support across its lineup, marking a significant upgrade to its infotainment offerings. This move comes as part of a broader push to enhance the Rivian Connect+ experience, with more streaming services joining the ride.
Rivian owners can now access Apple Music directly through their vehicle’s interface after a simple system update. This integration allows drivers to stream their favorite tunes without the need for a smartphone connection. However, there’s a catch – you’ll need both an Apple Music subscription and Rivian’s Connect+ service to tap into this feature.
For audiophiles who’ve splurged on Rivian’s premium sound system, there’s an extra treat. These lucky owners can experience Apple Music in spatial audio, potentially transforming their vehicle into a rolling concert hall. Rivian boasts that this collaboration delivers an “incredible audio entertainment experience,” though we’ll have to get behind the wheel to judge for ourselves.
Rivian Connect+ doesn’t come free – it’ll set you back $14.99 monthly or $149 annually. But to sweeten the deal, Rivian is offering all owners a two-month free trial of Connect+ alongside a 90-day Apple Music trial. It’s a clever move to get users hooked on the expanded features before asking them to open their wallets.
While Apple Music is grabbing headlines, it’s just the beginning of Rivian’s entertainment expansion. The company has announced that Google Cast and YouTube are en route to join the party. Additionally, later this year, the Gear Guard Live Cam feature will allow owners to keep an eye on their vehicles remotely via the Rivian app.
Interestingly, Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe has made it clear that the company isn’t interested in implementing Apple CarPlay. Instead, they’re focusing on native integrations like Apple Music. This strategy allows Rivian to maintain control over the user interface while still offering popular services.
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