Enhanced Audio Experience for Volvo Drivers
Volvo has officially announced the rollout of native Apple Music support for a wide range of its recent vehicles. This update integrates the popular streaming service directly into the car's Android Automotive-based infotainment system, eliminating the need for users to rely on smartphone mirroring to access their music.
By becoming a built-in feature, Apple Music joins other available services like Spotify, Tidal, and YouTube Music. This integration offers Volvo owners a more seamless way to enjoy high-quality audio through their vehicle's premium sound systems.
Immersive Sound with Dolby Atmos
A significant highlight of this update is the inclusion of support for Dolby Atmos and spatial audio tracks. When played through Volvo’s sophisticated in-car audio hardware—particularly the systems developed in collaboration with Bowers & Wilkins for models like the EX60, EX90, and ES90—this technology provides a deeply immersive listening experience. Furthermore, the inherently quiet cabins of Volvo’s electric vehicles serve to further enhance audio clarity and depth.
Eligibility and Availability
The update is being distributed over-the-air to compatible Volvo models produced from 2020 onwards. To celebrate the launch, the manufacturer is offering a three-month free trial for new Apple Music users, while current subscribers can simply sign in to their accounts to begin streaming immediately.
«The arrival of Apple Music marks a significant upgrade for the infotainment capabilities of the Volvo fleet, transforming the in-car entertainment environment for owners of recent models.»
Broader Implications for Android Automotive
Volvo was among the pioneers to adopt Google's Android Automotive platform. As this software architecture is shared with other brands, such as Polestar, industry observers speculate that similar Apple Music integrations may soon follow for those vehicles as well. Whether this development is a result of a targeted collaboration between Volvo and Apple, or part of a wider initiative from Google, remains to be determined. Regardless, it represents a substantial expansion of entertainment choices for Volvo drivers.