CarLink: Restoring CarPlay and Android Auto to GM's Google Built-In EVs

When General Motors introduced its current line of electric vehicles equipped with Google Built-In, these models arrived without support for Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Gasoline versions of the same vehicles still include these features, but the EV platforms launched with them disabled. While Google Built-In does offer navigation apps, streaming services, and its own voice assistant, many drivers prefer the flexibility and familiarity of their own phone-based ecosystem.

CarLink is an open source project created to restore that freedom of choice. It provides a safe, reversible, and fully external way for GM EV owners to use CarPlay or Android Auto through the vehicle's existing display, without altering anything in the car.

What CarLink Is

CarLink is an Android application that communicates with an off-the-shelf wireless adapter to enable CarPlay or Android Auto on GM EVs. The goal is simple: give drivers back the option to use the tools, apps, and voice assistants they already rely on.

CarLink is built around these principles:

• No modifications to the vehicle's hardware or software

• No rooting or bypassing internal systems

• Fully removable and reversible

• Works with proven, widely available hardware

The vehicle always remains in factory condition.

Compatible Hardware

CarLink is designed to work with the Carlinkit CPC200-CCPA, a well-established wireless CarPlay and Android Auto adapter that has been on the market for years. The adapter requires no modification to the vehicle and operates entirely externally.

The CarLink app manages communication between the adapter, your phone, and the vehicle's Google Built-In system.

Why CarLink Exists

Although the built-in system includes navigation options, streaming services, and a voice assistant, many drivers prefer the seamless integration and consistent experience of CarPlay or Android Auto. These platforms allow people to use the apps and assistants they are already familiar with, with workflows they have refined over years.

CarLink exists to restore that choice. It is not about modifying the vehicle or competing with what is built in. It is about giving consumers control over the tools they want to use. This is a matter of user preference and freedom, not corporate priorities.

How CarLink Works

CarLink requires two components:

1. The CarLink Android Application

Source code is available on GitHub:
https://github.com/motoinsight/carlink

Users can compile the app themselves and participate in its development. A closed beta may be offered in the future, but there is no guarantee or schedule at this time.

2. The Carlinkit CPC200-CCPA Adapter

CarLink communicates with this adapter and enables CarPlay or Android Auto to be displayed through the Google Built-In interface. Setup is external, simple, and reversible.

Safe, Reversible, and Non Intrusive

CarLink operates entirely outside the vehicle's internal systems. This ensures:

• No changes to the vehicle's firmware or diagnostics

• No interference with safety features

• No permanent hardware installations

• Immediate reversibility

Disconnect the adapter and uninstall the app and everything returns to factory behavior.

Current Development Work

CarLink is actively evolving. Ongoing efforts include:

• Improving communication stability and responsiveness

• Enhancing the setup experience and user interface

• Expanding support across GM's EV lineup

• Strengthening long-term performance

• Collecting feedback from users and community testers

Development is moving quickly, with new updates and research appearing regularly.

Join the Conversation and Help Shape the Project

CarLink is community driven. Anyone interested in testing, developing, or discussing the project is encouraged to join the ongoing conversation. Participation can include:

• Testing the app and reporting behavior

• Contributing code or technical research

• Suggesting features or improvements

• Helping with documentation

• Sharing findings from your own GM EV

Most collaboration takes place in the CarLink thread on XDA Developers.
https://xdaforums.com/t/general-motors-google-built-in-tinkering.4668105/

This is the best place to meet other users, follow new developments, and participate directly in shaping the project's direction.

Get Involved

You can participate in the CarLink project today by:

• Cloning and compiling the app from GitHub

• Joining the discussion on XDA Developers

• Testing and providing feedback

• Contributing code or documentation

• Helping verify compatibility across GM's EV lineup

CarLink is a work in progress, but its goal is clear: to restore freedom of choice for GM EV owners and put control back in the hands of the driver.