Rivian is introducing a significant software update that brings its latest infotainment system and Waze real-time alerts to all R1S and R1T electric vehicles, including first-generation models. According to InsideEVs, this update aims to unify the user experience across Rivian’s lineup and keep older vehicles up to date with new features.
Rivian OS 2.0: A Unified Infotainment Experience
The new Rivian OS 2.0 update delivers a redesigned infotainment system with updated graphics and improved responsiveness. This system, already standard on the R2, is now being extended to all R1S and R1T models—even those with older hardware. Rivian’s Chief Software Officer, Wassym Bensaid, stated that the R1 software was rebuilt from the ground up, with the goal of establishing a single core operating system across the entire lineup.
This approach not only streamlines future updates but also ensures that early adopters of Rivian vehicles continue to receive new features as their vehicles age.
Waze Real-Time Alerts Arrive for All Rivian Passenger EVs
A key highlight of the update is the integration of Waze real-time alerts, which will be available on all Rivian passenger EVs, including the first-generation R1S and R1T. This feature, delivered through software version 2026.31, provides drivers with live information about road hazards, police presence, and traffic conditions directly on the vehicle’s main screen.
While it is not yet clear if drivers will be able to submit their own reports from the vehicle, the addition of Waze alerts brings Rivian’s navigation experience closer to what many users expect from smartphone-based apps.
No Apple CarPlay or Android Auto—But Fewer Reasons to Miss Them
Despite these improvements, Rivian is not adding Apple CarPlay or Android Auto to its vehicles. The company’s strategy is to provide a comprehensive in-car experience that reduces the need for smartphone mirroring. With features like Waze integration and a faster, more intuitive interface, Rivian aims to meet most drivers’ needs natively.
Hardware Differences Remain Between R1 and R2
While software updates are unifying the user experience, some hardware differences persist. The R2 features Halo Wheels—multi-functional, steering wheel-mounted scroll wheels that allow drivers to control most vehicle functions without touching the central screen. R1 models, however, retain a more traditional setup with thumb controls and click-wheel scroll pads.
Competitor Comparison
Rivian’s approach to over-the-air updates and in-house infotainment is similar to strategies used by Tesla and Lucid, both of which emphasize native software ecosystems over third-party integrations like CarPlay. However, some competitors, such as Ford and Hyundai, continue to offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard, catering to drivers who prefer smartphone-based navigation and media.
Historical Context
Rivian delivered 51,579 vehicles globally in 2024, marking an 18% year-over-year decline. The company is also planning to open a new manufacturing plant in Georgia in 2025, signaling ongoing investment in its future growth and production capacity.
Why this matters
This software update demonstrates Rivian’s commitment to supporting its early customers by bringing the latest features to older vehicles. By unifying its operating system and adding popular navigation tools like Waze, Rivian is working to enhance the ownership experience and keep its vehicles competitive as they age.
The move also reflects a broader industry trend toward in-house software development and over-the-air updates, which can extend the useful life of EVs and improve customer satisfaction.
What this means for buyers
Current and prospective Rivian owners can expect their vehicles to remain technologically relevant thanks to ongoing software support. Those considering a Rivian EV should weigh the lack of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto against the company’s robust native features and regular updates.
Buyers interested in the latest hardware, such as the Halo Wheels, will need to look at the R2, while R1 owners benefit from many of the same software improvements.
Key Specs
- Software Version: 2026.31
- Infotainment System: Rivian OS 2.0
- Waze Integration: Real-time alerts for all R1S, R1T, and R2
- Apple CarPlay / Android Auto: Not supported
- Hardware Differences: R2 features Halo Wheels; R1 uses thumb controls and click-wheel scroll pads
Source
Images sourced from: rivian.com, rivianforums.com, motortrend.com
