Volvo Rolls Out Native Apple Music to 2 Million Cars via OTA Update
Volvo Cars is now delivering a native Apple Music app to more than two million vehicles already on the road, thanks to a July 2026 over‑the‑air (OTA) software update. The update adds a dedicated Apple Music interface to eleven model lines from the 2020 model year onward, letting drivers sign in with an Apple ID and stream music directly from the car’s infotainment system—no iPhone required.
The eleven models covered by the rollout are the EX90, ES90, XC90, S90, V90, XC60, S60, V60, XC40, EX40, and EC40. Volvo has not yet released a detailed schedule for when each model will receive the update, but the company confirmed that delivery will vary by model. The update is available to all eligible vehicles regardless of whether they currently use Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
Unlike most automotive software partnerships, which are typically introduced on next‑generation models, Volvo’s OTA update reaches cars that have been on the road for up to six years. The move showcases the company’s expanding OTA infrastructure and its ability to ship new features to an existing fleet at scale.
Apple Music’s native integration differs from the existing CarPlay experience. With CarPlay, Apple Music runs through a connected iPhone, and the car’s audio system routes the stream via the phone. The new native app lets drivers log in directly on the vehicle’s touchscreen or voice system, controlling songs, playlists, and live radio without a phone. Volvo has not clarified whether the app requires built‑in cellular data, a tethered hotspot, or a separate data plan.
Spatial Audio support is limited to three models that can accommodate Dolby Atmos: the EX60, EX90, and ES90 equipped with the optional Bowers & Wilkins premium sound system. In those vehicles, the native Apple Music app unlocks spatial audio playback, delivering a surround‑sound experience when listening to compatible tracks. The other eight models in the rollout do not include spatial audio capability.
Volvo’s head of global software engineering, Alwin Bakkenes, explained the rationale behind the native app: “Many of our customers use Apple Music on their phones or in their homes today. By bringing Apple Music directly into our cars, we’re making them an extraordinary place to experience music.” The company emphasized that CarPlay will remain available, allowing drivers to choose the interface that best fits their needs.
Owners of any of the eleven eligible models can claim a free Apple Music trial of up to three months through the Volvo Cars app. The trial, which offers access to more than 100 million songs and ad‑free listening, is redeemable until July 6 2027. It also allows users who switch from another streaming service to import their existing playlists and library into Apple Music during the signup process.
Volvo has not disclosed any financial terms or conversion targets for the partnership. The company’s customer support hub on Volvocars.com provides details on post‑trial billing, plan eligibility, and account restrictions.
The OTA update is part of Volvo’s broader strategy to enhance in‑car entertainment and to keep its fleet current with the latest software features. By delivering a native Apple Music app to existing vehicles, Volvo demonstrates that automotive software can evolve beyond the showroom and reach drivers who have already purchased the car.
In summary, Volvo’s OTA rollout adds a native Apple Music app to more than two million vehicles, offers spatial audio on select premium models, and provides a three‑month free trial for all eligible owners. The update is available through the Volvo Cars app and will be delivered over the air on a model‑specific schedule that has not yet been disclosed.
