
Photo Credit: Volvo
Apple Music with Dolby Atmos is going to be directly integrated into Volvo’s new EX60 mid-size electric SUV—the first vehicle from Volvo to come with an Apple Music app pre-installed. The app will be available through the vehicle’s built-in infotainment system, negating the need for CarPlay, though it will require an Apple Music subscription.
Volvo’s new SUV will also be equipped with its HuginCore system, integrating AI tech developed by Google, NVIDIA, and Qualcomm. MacRumors notes that Google Gemini is deeply integrated into the vehicle and allows the car to be controlled using “natural language commands.”
Despite its deep Gemini integration, the EX60 will still support CarPlay, which will come standard in the vehicle and enable users to connect their iPhone wirelessly to the car’s infotainment system. The car also includes Digital Key Plus, which lets users unlock and turn on the engine with an iPhone or an Apple Watch.
The EX60 is available now in European markets, while U.S. availability will start in the spring.
The prioritization of spatial audio in this partnership shouldn’t come as a surprise, given Apple Music’s emphasis on the technology. But GM’s announcement last month came a few months after the company said it would drop support for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, opting instead for a direct integration approach.
GM might have further music-related agreements on the horizon after announcing an agreement between Cadillac and Warner Music Australia back in October. Volvo will also undoubtedly unveil more models showcasing the new integration as it grows closer to rolling out the EX60 this summer.