Mercedes-Benz has added Apple Music to C-Class and S-Class models directly to the internet-connected infotainment system.
Mercedes-Benz adds Apple Music to infotainment system. Image Credit: Daimler
Apple Music users generally have to connect their iPhone directly to their vehicle wirelessly or via Lightning to listen to music. This is usually accomplished via CarPlay, but Mercedes-Benz has integrated the service directly into their internet-connected infotainment system.
"We use the possibilities of digitization through over-the-air updates to make the time our customers spend in their Mercedes as entertaining and fulfilling as possible," says Sajjad Khan, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz AG and CTO. "The seamless integration of online music streaming offers customers digital access to their own personal music enjoyment. With Apple Music, we have now fully integrated another service that fits perfectly into the Mercedes-Benz online music portfolio."
Users can take advantage of the in-car virtual assistant by saying "Hey Mercedes" and asking it to play Apple Music. The built-in app has access to all of the playlists and songs across the service.
According to Daimler, the update is included in any new C-Class or S-Class purchase, and existing owners will be able to add Apple Music in an over-the-air update later in 2021. Other music services like Amazon Music, Spotify, or Tidal can also be integrated with the infotainment system.
After activating the music streaming service on their Mercedes me account, customers will need data access within their vehicles. They can either purchase a data plan from a provider or use their smartphone's existing plan via tethering.
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