If you have a built-in navigation system in your car, when was the last time you actually used it? Probably not recently, right? That’s why Ferrari has decided to remove this feature altogether, and you can thank or blame your smartphone for that. Emanuele Carando, Ferrari’s head of product marketing, acknowledged that phone mirroring is the most user-friendly option. Smartphone operating systems and map apps like Google Maps, Apple Maps, and Waze are constantly updated, making in-car navigation systems quickly outdated.
While over-the-air (OTA) updates exist for native systems, they are not as frequent as the updates for map apps on your phone. In addition, using built-in car navigation systems can be confusing and time-consuming. Many systems are not intuitive, requiring too many steps or specific prompts to be followed. Even with virtual assistants in luxury cars, there is a steep learning curve that many people don’t have the patience for, especially Ferrari owners.
Android Auto and Apple CarPlay have become popular in-car operating systems due to their ease of use and seamless integration with smartphones. The familiarity of these systems, as most of us interact with our phones daily, makes them preferred choices. They allow for a smooth transition from your phone to your car, syncing GPS and apps like Waze effortlessly.
Automakers are now focusing on marketing smartphone OS compatibility, especially with wireless connections. Ford CEO Jim Farley acknowledged that the battle was lost a decade ago, emphasizing the importance of adapting to smartphone integration. Not only new cars, but older models are also receiving factory retrofits to accommodate Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, like the 2018-2022 Honda Accord.
It seems that the future of in-car navigation is moving towards smartphone integration, leaving behind the traditional built-in systems. As technology continues to evolve, it’s essential for automakers to keep up with consumer preferences and provide user-friendly solutions. Ferrari’s decision to remove the built-in navigation system is a clear indication of this shift in the automotive industry.
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