Skip to main content

GM just ‘unlocked’ over 200 Android Automotive apps, including YouTube, for its Google built-in vehicles

GM says that its Google built-in vehicles are picking up support for over 200 more Android Automotive apps, including the ability to use apps on the screens in the backseat.

Unlike the vast majority of vehicles on the road today, newer GM vehicles rely soley on the built-in infotainment system for apps and functionality. That’s because GM is removing support for Android Auto and CarPlay on newer vehicles, leaving the experience reliant fully on “Google built-in” which leverages Android Automotive apps.

This week, GM says that “over 200” new apps are being “unlocked” through the latest software updates.

With OnStar connectivity and our newest software updates, vehicles with Google built-in can now unlock over 200 new apps on Google Play from the center display. Plus, front and rear passenger screens in GM SUVs come loaded with even more apps and services, serving up a massive catalog of movies, shows, songs, podcasts, and live radio and TV channels. That means everyone gets their own watchlist and playlist for no-compromise content on the go.

In a press release, GM explains that this includes streaming apps such as YouTube, Disney+, Hulu, and more. Google first launched video apps on Android Automotive in 2023, but it arrives on a case-by-case basis, so GM vehicles are only now getting access.

Advertisement - scroll for more content

These streaming apps will work on the main screen while parked, but select vehicles can also use these apps on the displays in the backseat too.

GM calls out the following vehicles, model years 2025 and newer, as compatible with the new apps:

  • Chevrolet: Tahoe and Suburban
  • Cadillac: Escalade, ESCALADE IQ, ESCALADE IQL, and CELESTIQ
  • GMC: Yukon and Yukon XL

Streaming services coming to GM vehicles with Google built-in include AMC+, Disney+, Hulu, Tubi, TuneIn, ViX, YouTube, and YouTube Kids, with rear screen support “coming soon” to Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, SiriusXM, and Spotify.

GM’s full press release follows in the dropdown below.

Summer Drives in Your GM Vehicle Get an Upgrade with 200+ New Apps on Google Play and More Passenger Entertainment

Summer road trip season is here, and every mile just got a lot more fun in a GM vehicle.

With OnStar connectivity and our newest software updates, vehicles with Google built-in can now unlock over 200 new apps on Google Play from the center display. Plus, front and rear passenger screens in GM SUVs come loaded with even more apps and services, serving up a massive catalog of movies, shows, songs, podcasts, and live radio and TV channels. That means everyone gets their own watchlist and playlist for no-compromise content on the go.

Entertainment Across Every Seat

On the driver screen, the latest selection of in-vehicle apps on Google Play put a wide range of streaming, gaming, and interactive content front and center — so when you’re parked, it’s easy to dive into that show everyone’s talking about, take on a crossword puzzle, or tune into the game. From hit titles on some of your favorite streaming services to apps where you can shoot hoops, tap out a few notes on a piano, or rack up wins in solitaire and chess, there’s always something new to try.

The lineup on Google Play is always expanding, making it effortless to bring your favorite mobile apps along for the ride, fully optimized for your vehicle’s screen.

The passenger screens in GM’s premium SUVs offer even more ways to stay entertained — whether you’re parked or cruising. A solid roster of streaming services like AMC+Disney+HuluTubiTuneInViXYouTube, and YouTube Kids let front- and rear- seat passengers enjoy content on their own screens. Amazon MusiciHeartRadioSiriusXM, and Spotify are coming soon, giving passengers access to a broader mix of stations, playlists, and personalized listening options.

Don’t forget headphones. With one car and multiple vibes, they help keep the peace across every seat on those long summer drives.

Availability

Entertainment while parked: Select model year 2024 and newer Cadillac, Chevrolet, Buick and GMC vehicles with Google built-in and the latest software updates are eligible for the new apps on Google Play. The rollout has already started, and when it reaches your vehicle, available apps for download will automatically appear in a new “car compatible apps” section on Google Play. There are also fresh additions to explore in the “pass time while parked” category. Customers will need to be logged into their Google Account to access and download the apps.

Front and rear passenger screen apps: Supported on select 2025 and newer GM vehicles in the US, with apps delivered automatically to the displays as they are introduced.

  • Chevrolet: Tahoe and Suburban
  • Cadillac: Escalade, ESCALADE IQ, ESCALADE IQL, and CELESTIQ
  • GMC: Yukon and Yukon XL

With an eligible OnStar plan, login to your existing streaming or gaming account and get started. More features and capabilities are on the way as your vehicle continues to evolve with software.

Driver should not watch video content when car is in motion. Disney+ subscription required to access Disney+ content. Hulu subscription required to access Hulu content.

Google, Google Play, YouTube, Google Maps and other marks are trademarks of Google LLC.

More on Android Automotive:

Follow Ben: Twitter/XThreads, Bluesky, and Instagram

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.

You’re reading 9to5Google — experts who break news about Google and its surrounding ecosystem, day after day. Be sure to check out our homepage for all the latest news, and follow 9to5Google on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay in the loop. Don’t know where to start? Check out our exclusive stories, reviews, how-tos, and subscribe to our YouTube channel

Comments

Author

Avatar for Ben Schoon Ben Schoon

Ben is a Senior Editor for 9to5Google.

Find him on Twitter @NexusBen. Send tips to schoon@9to5g.com or encrypted to benschoon@protonmail.com.