Proton has revealed that its next model will be equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The carmaker did not reveal which model it will be, but we presume the model mentioned is the Proton X70 facelift which is said to be making its launch this year. The SUV was seen testing on public roads based on spy shots that surfaced online, with a new floating infotainment display at the centre of its dashboard.
Proton’s current lineup doesn’t come with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto support. Models such as the Proton X90, X70, X50, S70, Iriz, and Persona are fitted with infotainment head units that run on ACO Tech’s latest Atlas OS software.
Proton mentioned that the infotainment head unit hardware found in some of its models (no specific models mentioned) can support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This can be enabled simply via a software update.
As for models whose infotainment head units are incapable of running the in-car infotainment software, a hardware upgrade will be required. This is due to the hardware being initially developed to run on Chinese-developed software mainly for the Chinese domestic market, without Apple CarPlay and Android Auto being in the picture.
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When asked if customers of older Proton models can have their car’s infotainment upgraded to support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Proton responded that it is currently looking into the possibility. For the moment, the company will be focusing on equipping the in-car infotainment software to its upcoming models.
Proton says that customers are also not encouraged to sideload Apple CarPlay or Android Auto by themselves or via a third party. The company says that doing so will risk voiding the warranty of their Proton vehicles.
Does Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support in a car matter to you? For those whose cars come with the in-car infotainment systems, how often do you use them? Let us know in the comments!
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