Apple CarPlay apparently isn't used by BMW drivers for navigation, with the automaker citing data to bust a supposed myth that Apple's in-car system is being used to get from A to B.

CarPlay provides drivers and passengers with many features that replace the functions of the built-in infotainment system. While CarPlay does a lot, it seems that users don't like it for navigation, according to one car maker's research.

Referring to a so-called "CarPlay myth" that drivers use it considerably, BMW SVP of UI/UX Development Stephan Durach insists that it is not true. Instead, BMW drivers really prefer using the car maker's system.

"People say they're driving all around and using CarPlay for navigation," Durach said to BMWBlog. "I can tell you that's not true."

Durach refers to BMW's in-car data, collected from 10 million cars, as proof to bust the myth. "We can see what our customers are doing," he adds.

BMW drivers started using the car maker's navigation system, Durach insisted. However, they still had their phone connected with CarPlay for "dedicated use cases," though details of what those were didn't make the report.

The SVP reasoned that BMW's system was preferred due to the integration work the company has put in over the last five years. Intuitive voice control and a Routines feature help reduce the need for drivers to fiddle with their navigation system while on the move.

Durach's commentary is a continuation of statements made against Apple's in-car infotainment system replacement, which has received criticism over the years from various car makers.

Continued CarPlay downplay

With the prospect of CarPlay Ultra taking more control away from the manufacturer's infotainment system, this resentment has grown even more.

Most recently, Ford CEO Jim Farley was somewhat dismissive of CarPlay Ultra in its present state. Ford won't be adopting CarPlay Ultra in the near future, but the company was still "very committed to Apple."

The focus of his complaints were on features like Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) which uses sensors to improve safety. But with clients requiring the disablement of company cars on weekends or to prevent van access overnight, it's an element Ford draws the line at with Apple.

BMW has previously voiced its intention to not adopt CarPlay Ultra, stating in July that it had no plans for integration.

While manufacturers aren't happy to metaphorically hand over the wheel when it comes to infotainment systems, it does so while fighting consumer opinion over their own efforts.

In an August 2024 survey, CarPlay was popular with drivers. While in-vehicle infotainment system scores averaged a score of 805 on a satisfactions scale going to 1,000, CarPlay rated much higher at 840 points.

The chief complaint from consumers was that the built-in systems were too complex to use, with poor audio and a difficult menu structure also cited as issues.