Apple CarPlay & Android Auto Solution is Coming Soon... (seriously) -- by EV Play

[EV Play - Alex]

Big one is what happens when one decides they don't want to pay the sub?

Just locked out of updates? Or will it turn into a brick?
Decide to not give it internet, certain things function still or is the whole thing "DRM" locked where if it can't call home, you're SOL?

Great question and no, definitely not a brick. Paying the sub will get you updates, new features, support, community forum access, and other things TBD. The subscription directly helps offset the cost of those things and so those that pay it get the benefit of it. Those that don't, don't.

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[EV Play - Alex]

Also, it's not clear (to me at least) whether it will fully work while the car is in motion (e.g. use case: passenger wants to watch Netflix/YouTube/Plex on the big screen while the car is in motion), or if it will limit functionality to specific driving-only apps that OP decides.

I think OP hinted in this thread at restricting functionality to driving-only apps, but it's not explicit, nor is it mentioned in his FAQs on his website. Something definitive - one way or the other - would really help people decide whether they should pull the trigger on spending $399 + monthly sub.

I believe this was mentioned earlier in this thread but I know it is getting long, so happy to reiterate my stance on this. I will also add it to the FAQ's in our new forum.

I am emulating other companies with similar devices -- meaning those that have the ability to play video on a screen forward-facing of the front seats -- and disabling video-in-motion. And while the reasons I'm doing that should be obvious, a more in-depth explanation will have to be left for another day.

 

[EV Play - Alex]

Since you’re already digging into the instrument cluster (I assume that’s where the custom gauges will go, not the main screen), how hard would it be to integrate next-gen Apple CarPlay? Might be pretty cool option to keep it simple until you can offer fully customized gauges and such.

I think others mentioned it, but would be nice to get more functionality from the rear screen, especially ability to play Netflix and such on it (while driving of course).

For the CarPlay switch, would be nice to integrate that to either an existing Rivian switch, or perhaps work with one of the several custom charging pad folks to integrate a switch into the pad somewhere. Would prefer something not so loud and clicky too.

Excellent point re: next-gen CarPlay (if we ever see a release) and I don't see why not. I think that's sort of where EV Play is headed eventually, regardless of support from the big companies. We want their support, obviously...but who knows, maybe a crowd-sourced UI that provides functionality across all screens is the future. Add that to our new board!

As for the switch, the sound is definitely exaggerated on the video. It's really not that loud in person. Still, it's a standard RF remote that comes in all shapes, sizes, and "clicky-ness." You can easily swap it for something more to your liking. I'm additionally working on other ways to switch, including Alexa. I think you'll come to love the switch, as I have. It's fast, dependable, and provides great tactile feedback.

 

[atebit]

How about the option of a higher up-front “all-in” price vs a monthly subscription?

 

[markk]

All I need is another subscription... Ugg.

 

[godfodder0901]

All I need is another subscription... Ugg.

Then don't subscribe?

 

[TucsonST]

All I need is another subscription... Ugg.

I get it. Many consumers, myself included, are experiencing subscription fatigue. So, I was a bit deflated when I saw that a subscription would be attached to this product. It's not enough to dissuade me from buying unless the product is crippled without it. So, I still want this and I'll probably subscribe as long as I'm seeing some value from it.

 

[wyorivguy]

How involved is install on this thing? I think that's what's holding me right now, and would really like to see more on the hardware/install process for review.

 

[DayTripping]

How involved is install on this thing? I think that's what's holding me right now, and would really like to see more on the hardware/install process for review.

That is why I asked about even a draft install guide upstream.

 

[vdubbed81]

I haven’t seen the pre-order form. Just want to make sure I don’t miss it

 

[timgradywy]

What I'd recommend:
Low base price w/ no updates or other perks
Option for monthly/yearly subscription that includes those benefits mentioned above.
"Lifetime" subscription option that you pay once.

I suspect a lot of people would rather pay $100 or even $200 once vs. $3 per month for years.

IIRC, Plex implemented something like this.

 

[Motoarzon]

SUBSCRIPTIONS SUCK. How about Just sell individual add-on packs. i.e. Once a quarter reveal cool new skins or features and sell those pack updates for extra. I would easily pay $10-$20 one time purchase for some new interface skin.

 

[slillie]

Hello everyone, my name is Alex and I've been working over the past 5 months to get Apple CarPlay and Android working on my Rivian center display. I'm happy to announce that I have recently cracked the code, and I'm currently trying to bring this functionality to all Rivian owners. To do this, I have created an Android-based hardware device called "EV Play," which I'll be producing and selling in the next month or so.

While working on this process, I started to realize that EV Play could be a lot more than just CarPlay and Android Auto. The Rivian screen and sound system are amazing, and so the project quickly morphed in to a full-blown infotainment system.

At the end of the day, I certainly don't have all the answers. And so in addition to the physical device I would like to eventually build a community where all of us can discuss new ideas and propose new features.

I still have a few bugs to work out, but I'm pretty close to getting them resolved. In the meantime, I have put up a website with a short video I made, along with some additional information and an interest form. It is located here. Please help spread the word on other sites and groups, as this is a very exciting time for Rivian owners.

Here is the video as well:



I have to leave for my job but I'll try to get to the boards later in the day, should you have questions. The website also has my email address if you need to reach out. I expect a fair amount of messages so your patience is appreciated.

Cheers,
Alex

What happens when Rivian sends a software update. I don’t think supporting EVPlay is a priority with them. Also, could EvPlay void certain warranties?

 

[godfodder0901]

What happens when Rivian sends a software update. I don’t think supporting EVPlay is a priority with them. Also, could EvPlay void certain warranties?

It doesn't rely on Rivian software. Could they theoretically break it? Yes, but it's very unlikely.

And the only way you could void any warranty is breaking stuff during install.

 

[EV Play - Alex]

It doesn't rely on Rivian software. Could they theoretically break it? Yes, but it's very unlikely.

And the only way you could void any warranty is breaking stuff during install.

Well said, thank you!

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