That’s Infotainment: 2013 Cadillac XTS Buyers Get Free Ipad To Learn CUE

That’s Infotainment: 2013 Cadillac XTS Buyers Get Free iPad to Learn CUE
May 9, 2012 at 3:56pm by Andrew Wendler

When the 2013 XTS hits showrooms in late May, it will be the first Cadillac product available with the marque’s new CUE (Cadillac User Experience) capacitive-touch infotainment system. To complement their purchase, Cadillac XTS buyers also will receive an iPad—customized for Cadillac buyers, naturally—intended to accelerate the CUE learning curve while using the same technology upon which it is based, that of tablets and smartphones.

Cadillac is hardly the first automaker to use tech from Cupertino as a sweetener. At one time, Hyundai was including iPads with the purchase of its Equus; Saab did the same for those placing early orders for its 9-4X. Bentley’s Mulsanne Executive, Jaguar’s XJ Ultimate, and Mercedes-tuner Brabus’s 800 all feature integrated iPads in their interiors.

By Andrew Wendler

Equipped with Cadillac’s CUE app (available for download from the App Store in late May), iPad users will be able to experience CUE’s interface, enabling them to test-drive the system and review tutorials anytime and anywhere, in or out of the vehicle. Originally intended as a learning tool to educate dealership technicians, the app was deemed useful enough to make available to a wider audience. In addition to the CUE app, the Caddy’s gratis iPad also includes the MyCadillac app and OnStar RemoteLink.

In addition to Bluetooth connectivity providing access to contacts, audio files, and other useful information from your smart device, CUE also features GPS navigation, OnStar, weather maps with Doppler radar, stereo controls, and Pandora and XM radio. And because it’s a Linux-based system, it’s possible that the system could be further enhanced by third-party developers.

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To avoid alienating its core-customer base during CUE’s transition from the computer lab to the dashboard, Cadillac has established a network of consumer resources before the fact. CUE experts have been added to Cadillac’s customer-service call center, and OnStar reps will be similarly knowledgeable. In addition, U.S. Cadillac dealers will provide assistance from CUE-trained associates.