Many drivers find themselves frustrated with their car’s infotainment system, often feeling that the technology fails to meet their expectations for ease of use and functionality.
According to the latest J.D. Power survey, this dissatisfaction is particularly pronounced among users of in-vehicle systems not supported by popular smartphone integration platforms.
The 2024 U.S. Automotive Performance, Execution, and Layout (APEAL) Study highlights a notable preference among consumers for Apple CarPlay, which scored 840 out of 1,000 in user satisfaction, surpassing both the average infotainment system score of 805 and Android Auto’s 832. The study surveyed over 99,000 owners of new 2024 vehicles, capturing their feedback within 90 days of ownership.
This preference is particularly relevant in light of recent decisions by automakers like General Motors and Rivian, who have chosen to replace CarPlay and Android Auto with their own proprietary systems. Despite these moves, the survey reveals that many consumers still favor CarPlay's familiar and user-friendly interface.
Apple’s upcoming next-generation CarPlay, expected to launch later this year, is set to address some of these issues with features like multi-screen integration, built-in climate controls, and extensive customization options. This new version aims to further enhance user satisfaction and could influence how automakers approach infotainment system design in the future.
