This year has been full of car makers announcing which of their models will get Android Auto and in which model year. GM has gone all in with Android Auto. With Chevrolet bringing Android Auto to all of their models starting with the 2016 model year, Buick and Cadillac also bringing it to a number of their models in the 2016 model year, and GMC bringing it to the majority of their lineup as well. Last week, Chevrolet announced that they would be bringing Android Auto to their models beginning in March, with an over-the-air update to their infotainment system. Like most manufacturers, Chevrolet is focusing on Apple CarPlay first, with Android Auto taking a back seat.
Today, GMC has announced that they will begin rolling out Android Auto via an OTA update in March of 2016. Now it’ll be coming the Canyon, Sierra and Yukon with the 8-inch IntelliLink System. So if you are looking to buy a new truck between now and March, make sure you pick up the 2016 Canyon, 2016 Sierra, or 2016 Yukon and get the option for the 8-inch IntelliLink System. Otherwise you won’t be able to get the update when it’s available in March, unfortunately. Details of the update aren’t yet available, but you’ll likely need to take it into your dealership and have them install the update on your truck. Once more details are available, we’ll be sure to let you know.
GMC is one of the many car makers that have a partnership with AT&T for 4G LTE connectivity with their OnStar service. So you can get 4G LTE service from AT&T with your new GMC truck. It’s pretty cool, but do keep in mind that you will need to pay a bit more per month to for this option. And it’s not unlimited data. Also, it’s worth noting that Android Auto requires Android 5.0 Lollipop and higher. So if your phone still uses Android 4.4 KitKat or lower, be sure to upgrade before March, so you can use Android Auto to its full potential. We are working with GMC to get some hands on with their implementation of Android Auto, so keep checking back to Android Headlines for more info.