Quick Summary
Volvo is adding support for Apple Music to a full range of recent models, enabling more playback options for subscribers.
That will include support for spatial audio Dolby Atmos tracks on Apple's music service.
Volvo has announced that it is adding native Apple Music support to some of its recent models, giving easier access to one of the world's most popular streaming apps.
Apple Music will join the likes of Spotify, Tidal and YouTube Music, meaning subscribers can listen to high quality music on Volvo's comprehensive in-car audio systems.
Support for Dolby Atmos and spatial audio tracks will make better use of the car's speakers, with more immersive audio for a better listening experience.
Until now, Apple Music has not been supported natively on Volvo's Android Automotive-based infotainment system. That would see users having to connect a smartphone to use the app via mirroring, rather than being able to access the app directly.
To encourage people to use Apple Music, Volvo is giving customers a three-month free trail (eligibility is limited to new Apple Music users), but existing subscribers will be able to dive right in after the update.
Support for Apple Music will come to the following models from 2020 onwards:
- EX90
- ES90
- XC90
- S90
- V90
- XC60
- S60
- V60
- XC40
- EX40
- EC40
The new Volvo EX60 will already have Apple Music installed when ordered cars start to arrive this summer.
Once you have the update, you'll just have to sign into your Apple account and the app will then stream as normal.
Volvo has one of the best in-car sound systems, working with Bowers & Wilkins for an enhanced system in the EX60, EX90 and ES90 models. These electric cars are also quieter on the road than combustion models, so the sound is even more impressive.
Volvo uses Android Automotive to power its car's entertainment and was one of the first manufacturers to sign-up to the vehicle-specific version of Android. The same platform is used by Polestar and it's not too much of a leap to suggest that Polestar might also offer Apple Music in the future too.
Previously, there's been some parity in the music offering between these two brands, such as offering the Abbey Road app, again, part of the tie up with Bowers & Wilkins.
Whether this is specific work that Volvo has done to bring Apple Music to their cars, or whether this is part of a bigger push from Google isn't clear, but if you've got a recent Volvo, your music options have just expanded.
The update will arrive over the air to the models listed above.
