GM Expands In-Car Streaming With Native Apple Music and Free Data Access

General Motors is continuing to reshape its in-car software strategy after dropping Apple CarPlay and Android Auto from many newer vehicles. This time, the automaker is taking a step aimed directly at improving the ownership experience by adding native Apple Music support and bundling free data for audio streaming across much of its lineup.

The move addresses one of the most persistent criticisms of GM’s post-CarPlay approach: limited functionality without paid connectivity.

A New Streaming Tier Comes Standard

General Motors has introduced a new feature called Standard Streaming, which provides free internet connectivity for audio apps in eligible vehicles sold in the United States and Canada.

This feature is now included in the OnStar Basics package at no additional cost for all 2025 and newer GM vehicles. GM says the connectivity will remain active for eight years from the original vehicle purchase date, though the company has not yet clarified what pricing will look like once that period ends.

Standard Streaming allows drivers to access music, podcasts, audiobooks, and news apps directly from the vehicle’s infotainment system without relying on a phone connection or paying a separate data fee.

How This Changes GM’s Subscription Model

Previously, owners of newer GM vehicles needed to subscribe to OnStar Connect, a $9.99-per-month service, to enable basic data connectivity for infotainment apps. That subscription also includes features like remote commands, navigation tools, and voice assistance.

With the new setup, audio streaming data is now free, while advanced services still sit behind a paid subscription. In other words, GM has split entertainment and vehicle services into two distinct tiers, lowering the barrier for everyday media use.

However, this change applies only to 2025 and newer models. Owners of 2024 and older GM vehicles equipped with Android Automotive systems will still need to pay $14.99 per month for OnStar Connect to access streaming features.

Apple Music Goes Native on GM Screens

Alongside free streaming data, GM is rolling out a native Apple Music app that runs directly on its Android Automotive-based infotainment systems.

The app is being delivered via over-the-air updates and is launching first on select Cadillac and Chevrolet models, with additional GM brands expected to follow. Importantly, the app is not available for 2024 and older vehicles, even if they already use Android Automotive.

Drivers must still maintain their own Apple Music subscription, as GM is only providing the data connection—not the content itself.

A Big Win for Cadillac Audio Systems

For Cadillac owners, the Apple Music rollout comes with a notable bonus: Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos support.

This feature enables compatible Cadillac sound systems to play specially mixed tracks with enhanced depth, directionality, and clarity. Unlike traditional stereo audio, Dolby Atmos creates a more immersive listening experience that takes advantage of multiple speakers positioned throughout the cabin.

GM positions this as a premium differentiator, especially for luxury buyers who value high-end audio as part of the in-car experience.

Fixing a Key Pain Point After Dropping CarPlay

GM’s decision to remove Apple CarPlay and Android Auto from newer vehicles sparked backlash, largely because many drivers felt forced into subscriptions just to access basic features they previously used for free.

By offering long-term free data for audio streaming and adding a native Apple Music app, GM appears to be correcting course—at least partially. While the company remains committed to its own software ecosystem, this update reduces friction for everyday use and improves perceived value.

Whether this will be enough to win over skeptical buyers remains to be seen, but it signals that GM is listening to customer feedback as it pushes deeper into software-defined vehicles.

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