Talking Cars 515: Why Are Cars Turning Into Smartphones?

And yet GM, Rivian, and Tesla don’t let you use Android Auto or Apple CarPlay?

Keith Barry, Consumer Reports Senior Autos Reporter.

By Keith Barry
Senior Autos Reporter

July 15, 2026

Main theme: Shopping for a car is starting to feel like shopping for a smartphone. While most manufacturers let you bring your own device and use your phone for calls, navigation, and audio with Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, Rivian and Tesla don’t have either, and GM is following their lead.

What’s behind the change, and what can buyers expect?

Talking Cars Episode 515 panel — “Talking Cars” panelists (from left): Keith Barry, Maddie McCarty, and Mike Crossen.

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Recent Podcast Episodes

• Driving the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz, episode 514
• The State of the American Auto Industry, episode 513
• Driving the 2026 Subaru Uncharted, episode 512
• The Future of Rivian and Lucid, episode 511
• Driving the 2026 Dodge Charger R/T, episode 510

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Keith Barry

Keith Barry has been an auto reporter at Consumer Reports since 2018. He focuses on safety, technology, and the environmental impact of cars. Previously, he led home and appliance coverage at Reviewed; reported on cars for USA Today, Wired, and Car & Driver; and wrote for other publications as well. Keith earned a master’s degree in public health from Tufts University. Follow him on BlueSky @itskeithbarry.bsky.social.