Building on General Motors' mission to take connectivity to the next level – for today's connected consumer – GMC has added Apple CarPlay capability to the 2016 Yukon and Sierra. Essentially, Apple CarPlay takes the iPhone features customers want to access while driving and integrates them into the vehicle's display in a smart, simple manner with the brand's IntelliLink system. Android Auto capability will also be offered on some Sierra models at the beginning of the model year and all Sierra and Yukon models later in the year. The features allow customers to use select smartphone apps through the touchscreen interface of GMC's IntelliLink system. Many features can be controlled via voice commands {Siri} through the standard voice command button on the steering wheel, helping drivers keep their eyes on the road and hands on the wheel. Visitors of the GMC Middle East Dubai International Motor Show stand will be able to experience demonstration of Apple CarPlay on the MY16 Yukon and Sierra. GMC's latest infotainment systems include an eight-inch-diagonal screen version offered on the Yukon and Sierra, which will be compatible only with Apple CarPlay at the beginning of the 2016 model year. A seven-inch-diagonal screen radio is offered on Sierra base models and will offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability at the beginning of the model year. Android Auto capability is expected to be available on the eight-inch system later in the 2016 model year. Apple CarPlay allows drivers to make calls, send and receive messages and listen to music right from the touchscreen or by voice via Siri. Apple CarPlay-supported apps include Phone, Messages, Maps, Music and third-party audio apps. A full list of those apps can be found at Apple.com/ios/carplay. Apple CarPlay is compatible with iOS 7.1 or higher. Android Auto is built around Google Maps, Google Now and the ability to talk to Google, as well as a growing audio and messaging app ecosystem. A full list of supported apps is available at g.co/androidauto. Android Auto requires a phone running an Android Lollipop 5.0 operating system or above. Using either application is simple. A "Projection" icon on the IntelliLink screen is visible when a phone is not connected, then changes to indicate CarPlay or Android Auto when a compatible phone is connected via USB. Compatible apps need to be downloaded to a phone before using. Apple and Google's privacy statements and terms of use apply. Data plan rates may also apply. Built on the philosophy of ‘Commands Respect', GMC has built pickups since 1902. With a rich heritage in the Middle East and an impressive 111 years of presence, innovation and engineering excellence is built into all GMC vehicles. The brand is evolving to offer more fuel-efficient pickups, crossovers and SUVs. The GMC portfolio in the Middle East features Terrain small SUV and Acadia crossover. The Sierra half-ton pickup is the most powerful light duty pickup on the market, and the first full-size pickup to receive the highest possible five-star Overall Vehicle Score for safety since the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration changed its New Car Assessment Program for the 2011 model year. Every GMC model, including Yukon and Yukon XL full-size SUVs, is available in Denali luxury trim. GMC also offers customers a high-level aftersales service experience.
