EV PLAY MAX FOR RIVIAN - FAQ's
What is EV Play Max?
EV Play Max is an Android-based hardware device that supercharges your Rivian® infotainment system. From video streaming apps like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and Amazon Prime, to audio streaming apps like Pandora, Soundcloud, and XM; navigation apps such as Google Maps and Waze (finally!); Web browsers like Chrome and Firefox. Have some time to kill while charging? How about a little Call of Duty or Roblox for the kids to pass the time — played on actual wireless game controllers (compatibility dependent on the game). These are native apps by the way, not tethered. But tethering is supported as well.
What about Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes! Both are available via either wired or wireless connection. You read that right – wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay is now available on your Rivian!
What was your inspiration to create EV Play Max?
I started working on this project in early Summer 2024, after almost getting in to an accident while texting and driving. Shame on me I know, but without any easy way to send & receive messages hands free, the inclination to do so, unfortunately, got the best of me. It was at this point that I said enough was enough, and started working on a way to get CarPlay on to my Rivian. It wasn’t easy, but I was determined. What was interesting is that as I started going down this crazy rabbit hole, I realized that EV Play Max could become a lot more than just CarPlay and Android Auto. I don’t know about you, but I spend a lot of time in my car charging. And Rivian was kind enough to give us an amazing screen and sound system…so why not use them both to their full potential?!
Is it compatible with Connect+ or is Connect+ required?
EV Play Max does not require a Connect+ subscription — or any internet connection for that matter — if you’re using a feature like CarPlay or Android Auto, since those use the internet connection on your phone. However, if you plan to use a native Android app on EV Play Max — such as Netflix, Zoom, Grand Theft Auto, etc. — EV Play Max will require a WiFi connection. That can be either Connect+ or through your phone’s tethered wi-fi connection.
Is it easy to install?
EV Play Max isn’t difficult to install, but it isn’t quite plug & play. I strongly suggest viewing our install videos to see if this is a project you can accomplish. The installation process on the R2 (20 minutes) is a lot easier than the R1 (45 minutes to an hour). We highly recommend installing this yourself — versus paying someone to do it — so that you are able to troubleshoot any issues in the future should they occur.
Is it compatible with all Rivians?
Yes EV Play Max is compatible with Gen 1 & Gen 2 of the R1S and R1T, as well as the new R2.
Will it void my warranty?
EV Play Max is considered an aftermarket “add-on,” and should not affect your warranty if installed correctly. We cannot guarantee something Rivian may nor may not do obviously, and so all the typical disclaimers like YMMV, install at your own risk, etc. apply.
What else do you have planned for EV Play Max?
There are a ton of amazing features in the development roadmap, from customized instrument clusters; internal live cams (think something along the lines of Gear Guard®, but for the inside of your car), to an AI assistant that will find you an available charging spot and even order you a pizza ahead of time! Imagination is the only limit here. Is there something you want EV Play Max to do? Head on over to the Feature Request topic in our forum and post it! Aside from the device itself, the goal is to build a community where everyone can discuss and propose future ideas. The hardware is built to be super flexible, and so sky is the limit when it comes to what EV Play Max can do.
How much does it cost and how do I get one?
EV Play Max for Rivian costs $440.00 plus tax and shipping. We are now including the annual subscription free for 2 years, which includes and extended warranty and priority technical support. The current batch of units is not shipping until late-October/early-November, therefore, you would place a $199 pre-order deposit today, and the remainder prior to shipping.
I still have questions!
Please check out our forum for additional assistance. Don’t see your question answered? Feel free to contact us.