At the 2025 Barclays Global Auto and Mobility Tech Conference, Ford CFO Sherry House confirmed that the automaker remains passionate about giving customers the option to use Apple CarPlay. In a landscape where competitors like General Motors are increasingly locking users into proprietary systems, Ford is doubling down on a strategy that prioritizes driver preference and seamless iPhone integration.
House explicitly stated that Ford recognizes how much their drivers enjoy the feature, making it a “product that our customers really enjoy.” Rather than forcing users to abandon the familiar interface of their iPhones for a manufacturer-specific OS, Ford is choosing to support the ecosystem their customers already live in.
However, keeping CarPlay does not mean Ford is ignoring its own software development. House revealed that the company is simultaneously investing heavily in native applications to deepen its connection with drivers. Early results are promising, with engagement levels for these new native features having increased compared to the previous SYNC 4 system. Looking ahead, Ford’s technology roadmap is becoming even more diverse with the addition of Google’s Gemini AI. House announced that Ford intends to integrate Gemini in 2026, as soon as it becomes available for automotive applications.
Are you relieved to see Ford sticking with CarPlay, or do you prefer native in-car systems? Let us know in the comments! Stay updated with the latest news and deals by downloading the Appleosophy App from the App Store or by visiting our website.
