Core Viewpoint - Apple's new in-car system CarPlay Ultra is facing resistance from several automakers, despite its high adoption rate in the market [1][2][3] Group 1: Automaker Resistance - Major automakers such as Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Volvo, Polestar, and Renault have no plans to integrate CarPlay Ultra into their vehicles, despite Apple's previous indications [1] - General Motors announced it will stop installing CarPlay and Android Auto in some North American electric models, highlighting a growing debate on the extent to which automakers should allow tech companies to control in-car experiences [1] - Renault is collaborating with Google and Qualcomm to develop a software-controlled vehicle, indicating a pushback against Apple's perceived encroachment [1] Group 2: Adoption and Usage Statistics - Aston Martin has become the first automaker to integrate CarPlay Ultra into its vehicles, while many others are developing their own infotainment systems to create additional revenue from in-car services and vehicle data [2] - Apple claims that 98% of new cars in the U.S. are equipped with CarPlay, with U.S. drivers using the system over 600 million times daily [2] Group 3: Competitive Landscape - Automakers are in a dilemma as they seek growth opportunities in a market where car sales are peaking, while also needing to differentiate their brands in a competitive high-end market [3] - The shift towards electrification and autonomous driving is increasing the importance of software, intensifying the competition between tech companies and automakers over control of in-car driving experiences [3] - Porsche plans to support CarPlay Ultra in future models, indicating potential future adoption among more automakers [3] Group 4: Data Sharing and User Experience - Many automakers, including Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Audi, have developed their own infotainment systems but will continue to offer the older CarPlay system to meet consumer demand [4] - Aston Martin has integrated CarPlay Ultra while maintaining its brand identity, ensuring that traditional physical dashboards remain available for users who prefer them [4] - Aston Martin has set clear boundaries regarding data sharing during discussions with Apple, ensuring that vehicle data remains within its own infotainment system [4]