In a move that mirrors other segments of GM’s->ke1024 lineup, Cadillac->ke18 will offer enhanced infotainment options and connectivity through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto starting in the 2016 model year. The new integration is part of a broader revitalization of the Cadillac User Experience (CUE) system, and promises new features and more streamlined operation. 

Apple CarPlay will first appear for the 2016 model year, slated to begin this summer, with support from the 8-inch CUE multi-touch screen. This excludes the SRX->ke1735 crossover,->ke288 which will receive a new generation early next year. Meanwhile, Android Auto is expected to see support “at a later date.”

Access to the new systems will be provided via a “Projection” icon on the CUE screen. Selecting this icon will enable basic smartphone functions through the car’s infotainment system.

Apple CarPlay provides features like making and receiving calls, sending and receiving text messages, listening to music, talking to Siri, access to navigation, and use of a variety of third-party apps (see a full list here). Meanwhile, Android Auto will offer Google Maps, Google Now, Google search, Google Play Music, and several third-party apps (like WhatsApp, Skype, Spotify and podcast players. Check out the full list on g.co/androidauto).

Phones connect via USB to integrate with the infotainment system. Apple CarPlay requires iOS 7.1 or higher (or an iPhone 5 or later), while Android Auto requires the Android Lollipop operating system.

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Why it matters

GM also recently announced its intentions to offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in 14 different Chevy->ke199 models starting with the 2016 model year. Support will come from the 7-inch and 8-inch MyLink screens. Like Caddy, the Chevy models will first offer Apple CarPlay and follow up with Android Auto at a later date, with features controllable via both voice commands and through buttons mounted on the steering wheel. 

“For most of us, our smartphones are essential,” said Mary Barra, CEO of General Motors, in a previous press release. “Partnering with Apple and Google to offer CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility across the widest range of models in the industry is a great example of how Chevrolet continues to democratize technology that’s important to our customers.”

For Cadillac, wireless charging and OnStar 4G LTE Wi-Fi services, both of which were added for the 2015 model year, will be retained.

The CUE system will also be enhanced with a faster processor for quicker start-ups, voice recognition, navigation searches, and media playing. The nav system’s control structure has also been simplified for easier use. Furthermore, the Escalade,->ke245 CTS,->ke1200 and XTS->ke3488 will see the addition of Surround Vision, which offers a 360-degree view around the vehicle for easier parking and close-quarters navigation. 

While the new features and hardware will undoubtedly enhance the user experience, I can’t help but see a bit of redundancy overall. For example, the CUE navigation system may have been redesigned (again), but it’s far more likely drivers will use their more familiar and easier-to-use smartphone interfaces. Unfortunately for Cadillac, the standalone CUE system just can’t compete.

To understand why, we have to look back at the sordid origins of CUE. Back in the 2013 and 2014 model years, reviewers heaped praise onto just about every aspect of Caddy’s new European-rivaling luxury vehicles, with one glaring exception – the infotainment system. When CUE was first introduced, folks were less than impressed. While ambitious, the system was extremely complex, confusing many with overly dense navigation for the most basic of functions. Support was minimal. The lack of physical controls meant users would have to take their eyes off the road while operating the touch screen, with icons often placed in seemingly random, haphazard locations. The system was not just frustrating, but a danger on the road, requiring far more attention than could be deemed safe. 

To its credit, Cadillac was quick to update and improve the system. However, compared to the layouts found in Apple and Android products, CUE isn’t even in the same ballpark. After all, these tech companies have always designed device user interface systems, while in-car touchscreens are relatively new.

Integrating the product design of Apple and Android is a safe, smart move for Cadillac. Its just too bad it didn’t happen sooner.

2016 Cadillac CTS-V

Read our full review here.