In a recent interview on the Decoder podcast, Ford’s CEO, Jim Farley, addressed the company’s stance on integrating Apple’s CarPlay Ultra into their vehicles. Historically, Ford has been a strong advocate for Apple’s CarPlay, even committing to support the next-generation CarPlay Ultra prior to its launch earlier this year. However, despite this initial commitment, Ford has yet to implement CarPlay Ultra in its lineup.
When questioned by guest host Joanna Stern about Ford’s plans regarding CarPlay Ultra, Farley responded:
> We are. We don’t like the execution in round 1 of Ultra, but we’re very committed to Apple. I’ve talked to Tim many times about this.
Farley emphasized Ford’s dedication to ensuring that drivers can seamlessly integrate their personal digital ecosystems into their vehicles. He stated that Ford aims to make it as easy as possible for users to continue using their preferred technology without disruption.
Despite this commitment, Farley’s comments suggest that Ford is not currently prioritizing the integration of CarPlay Ultra. This position contrasts with other automakers who have already adopted the platform.
The conversation also touched upon the broader implications of allowing tech companies like Apple to control critical vehicle functions. Farley expressed concerns about the extent of control that Apple might exert over vehicle operations, such as starting the car or setting speed limits. He questioned how far the Apple brand should extend into vehicle functionalities, highlighting the need for a clear delineation between automotive manufacturers and tech companies.
This cautious approach by Ford reflects a broader industry debate about the balance between integrating advanced tech features and maintaining control over core vehicle operations. As the automotive landscape continues to evolve with increasing digital integration, manufacturers like Ford are carefully considering how to best serve their customers while preserving their brand identity and control over vehicle functionalities.
