GM Hires Former Apple Exec to Head Its Software Efforts

GM recently announced it would phase out Apple’s CarPlay and has now hired a former Apple exec to head up its own software efforts.

GM has hired Mike Abbott, former VP of Engineering for Apple’s Cloud Services. Abbott will lead a new team that combines Software Defined Vehicle and Operating System; Information and Digital Technology; and Digital Business.

“We have entered the next phase of our technology driven transformation focused on rapidly scaling new EV models and our Ultifi software platform, which will drive faster innovation and enable new and exciting customer experiences,” said GM CEO Mary Barra. “Mike’s experience as a founder and entrepreneur coupled with his proven track record creating and delivering some of the market’s most compelling software-defined solutions for consumers and companies make him an excellent fit at GM.”

“I’m a product person at heart, so as the transformation of transportation quickly accelerates, I know that software is the catalyst for redefining experiences for consumers and enterprises like never before,” said Abbott. “GM is playing a pivotal role in this shift and I’m excited to join the team and bring my experience in software to bear to not only take advantage of the massive opportunities that lay ahead for the company but to help change the world.”

Abbott’s experience at Apple includes working on iCloud iMessage, Mail, Private Relay, and account security.