In May of this year, Google and Rivian announced a partnership to bring Google Cast and a native YouTube app to Rivian vehicles. The rollout of these features is now imminent, with a holiday update for Rivian R1S and R1T vehicles on the way. The update, referred to as build 2024.47, will not only include Google Cast and YouTube capabilities but also other enhancements detailed in a changelog by RivianTrackr.
The Google Cast and YouTube features will be incorporated into a new “Video” app on the main display of Rivian vehicles. Users can choose between Google Cast and YouTube icons within the app. Google Cast will allow users to cast content from compatible video apps, although Netflix is not supported. For YouTube, users can simply open the app and sign in to access their account.
During a preview period, all Rivian owners will have access to Google Cast and YouTube functionality. However, these features will eventually be integrated into the paid Connect+ subscription package. Rivian has not specified when these features will transition to a paid model.
The update also includes various other enhancements, which Rivian owners can learn more about through the provided link. The rollout of the update is expected to occur in the coming weeks, with the preview features becoming available to all users. This marks Rivian’s major end-of-year update.