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Ford's new Sync Connect app lets you remotely start your car
How do you know that app-connected cars are going to become the norm rather than the exception? When Ford decides to get in on the action. The firm has announced the launch of its Sync Connect app that'll pair your smartphone to its vehicles, letting you access (and control) it from anywhere in the world. The first vehicle to benefit from the technology is the 2017 Ford Escape, and users will be able to control the door locks as well as remotely start the engine. In addition, the app will let you know your car's vital statistics, including the fuel, oil and battery levels, as well as letting you use GPS to pick your ride out of a crowded parking lot. Sure, we've seen similar tech in plenty of other high-spec and luxury offerings (Tesla, take a bow) but the Escape is one of the cheapest ways to get a high-tech ride.
Ford drops Microsoft and revamps its Sync system for more speed
Ford has abandoned Microsoft in favor of BlackBerry with its third-gen Sync connected car system and promised smartphone-like performance, conversational voice control and a simpler interface. As had been rumored, the Sync 3 will use BlackBerry's QNX instead of Microsoft's MyFord Touch system platform -- a big change-up, considering that Ford and Microsoft have worked together on Sync for over seven years. But after polling customers, the auto giant said that it was determined to make the third-gen system more responsive and less clumsy to use.
Ford reportedly dropping Windows in favor of QNX for next-gen Sync software
Forget the fact that Ford CEO Alan Mulally was reportedly a contender for the Microsoft CEO job: the two companies have long had a cozy relationship, with Ford using Windows to power its in-car Sync software. That could change, though, if this story from Bloomberg is correct. The news agency is reporting that Ford plans to ditch Windows for its next-gen Sync system and base it on BlackBerry's QNX instead. In particular, Bloomberg's sources claim that a move to QNX would be more cost-effective, and also lead to potential improvements in "speed and flexibility." Indeed, the performance could be the deciding factor here: Ford has rated the quality of its vehicles "mixed" for the last three years, according to Bloomberg, with customers complaining about tech malfunctions in customer satisfaction surveys by J.D. Power & Associates and Consumer Reports. For now, Ford, BlackBerry and Microsoft have all declined comment. If the report is true, though, Ford would find itself in good company: luxury brands like Audi and BMW already use QNX in their in-car systems.
Future Ford cars to balance MyFord Touch with old-fashioned buttons
While Ford's MyFord Touch is a popular option for tech-savvy drivers, it's not always the most intuitive -- some complain that basic tasks, like radio tuning, are relatively awkward. The company is very aware of the feedback, as it's now supplementing the touch controls with "traditional" buttons and knobs. Both the latest F-150 and future vehicles will reflect the hybrid approach. Ford is still giving touchscreens some love with a MyFord Touch update due this summer, but it's clear that the company will keep one foot in the analog world for a while longer.
Amazon Cloud Player iOS update enables Ford Sync AppLink support
Select Ford owners with Android phones have been rockin' out with Amazon Cloud Player and their in-dash Sync systems for the better part of three months. Now, iPhone and iPod touch users are invited to join in on the fun. The latest version of Amazon's app for iOS, 2.1.0, enables wireless streaming and control with Ford's AppLink platform. The service joins a handful of competitors, including Spotify, which announced its own compatible app in late February. The refreshed iOS app also brings playlist and VoiceOver updates, so even if you don't drive a Ford, it might be worth the download. You can snag it right now at the source link below.
Amazon MP3 adds Ford SYNC support for Android, makes you vocalize your bad taste
If we're being honest, many of you probably won't care too much about the latest update to Amazon MP3 for Android. Why? Well, the big new feature is Ford SYNC support, and we're pretty sure that a majority of cars on the road aren't packing the in-dash infotainment system yet. But, it is still quite a popular feature in new Ford vehicles and there's definitely a healthy number of drivers out there eager to put their Amazon music collection just a voice command away while they toil away in rush hour traffic. Version 2.8 of the app also includes the requisite bug fixes and a tweaked store that displays more search results. But we know all you really care about is the ability to tell your car to "play Usher" without feeling judged. Time to celebrate.
Ford opens AppLink developer program, wants more apps with in-car voice control
Ford's SYNC AppLink technology for smartphone voice control while behind the wheel is currently only a feature of a handful of big-name apps. That may soon change, however, as here at CES, the motor company has announced a developer program to promote integration of its AppLink APIs into third-party software. Registration for the fledgling online community is open at the source link below, and interested devs will get access to an SDK, accompanying documents, and will qualify for technical guidance courtesy of Ford. As well as the dev program, a bunch of brand new and recent AppLink partnerships were reported with Chinese outfit Sina, WSJ, USA Today, Kaliki, Amazon Cloud Player, Aha Radio (pictured above), Rhapsody, Greater Media, Glympse, and BeCouply. Hit up the PR below or head to the source for more information. Follow all the latest CES 2013 news at our event hub.
Glympse announces voice-controlled location-sharing app for Ford SYNC
What's the point of hitting the road for glamorous destinations if you can't brag it up? To that end, Glympse is launching a new voice-activated location-sharing app that works with Ford SYNC-equipped vehicles. You'll need to install it on a compatible iOS or Android smartphone, then connect to your SYNC system via Bluetooth, provided you're one of the 5 million Ford drivers so equipped. From there, you'll be able to share your location with contacts by saying "send a Glympse," forewarning Grandma via Facebook or Twitter to put the pumpkin pie in the oven -- without needing to take your eyes off the road or make a call. Your contacts can even go online to see a moving map presentation of your Napa Valley wine tour while they're slaving in front of a screen -- so head sideways after the break for more info. Follow all the latest CES 2013 news at our event hub.
Ford sells its 5-millionth vehicle with SYNC: that's a lot of media-savvy cars
They grow up so fast, don't they? It was almost six years ago that we saw Ford SYNC step into the world, and the automaker has just handed the keys to the owner of the 5-millionth SYNC-capable vehicle. While we haven't been told what model had the distinction, the milestone represents another million SYNC cars, SUVs and trucks than we saw in May last year. The most striking aspect between then and now may just be the shift in focus (pun entirely intended) -- where we started off just happy to hook up our Zunes in a world of CD changers, we're only content today if we can control seemingly every mobile app known to humanity through a touchscreen. Ford might not want to look too fondly at its rear-view mirror, however, lest an abundance of technology-laden competition close in too quickly.
Voice control comes to MOG's music streaming service with Ford SYNC AppLink
Good news for those who like music on-the-go, Ford had just added a new heavy hitter to its AppLink platform, and this time it comes from none other than MOG. The streaming service boasts a catalog of 15 million tracks, which is available to mobile devices for a monthly subscription fee of $9.99. With the Ford SYNC integration, users may access this vast library either through voice commands or in-dash controls, and as another nice touch, one's music queue will automatically resume from wherever they left off. Voice commands include "artist only" and "similar artists," along with "downloads" for situations when you aren't able to stream and "shuffle favorites." Finally, users may also create presets based on what's currently playing, simply by pressing and holding one of the in-dash preset buttons. This availability is solely for iOS users, but if you'd like to learn more, check the full PR after the break. %Gallery-157259%
Ford says Sync is now in 4 million vehicles, takes a moment to talk up Focus Electric
Since its debut in 2007, Ford and Microsoft's Sync infotainment system has made its way into several of the auto maker's models, including the 2012 Focus Electric. At this week's Future in Review tech conference, Ford announced that more than 4 million vehicles in the US have its entertainment platform on board. In addition to dropping that stat, the company talked up its new EV, which it says can charge in half the time it takes for the Nissan Leaf. Maybe Ford caught wind of Nissan's just-announced e-NV200 all-electric van and wanted to remind those in the market for an EV that a blue box isn't the only option.
MyFord Touch update rolling out now, promises to be 'faster, simpler, better'
It's been a few months since Ford promised us that juicy refresh to its whips' infotainment system, but it looks as if the wait is about to come to an end. The Built Tough manufacturer says it's finally shipping those 2GB USB sticks (plus an SD card if you have Navigation) to proud owners of MyFord Touch-equipped rides. Included in the fresh update -- which promises to be faster, simpler and better -- are things such as easier controls, audio support for tablets, improved Sirius commands and the ability to jam listen to Audible audiobooks. Folks rockin' the Nav add-on will also see bits like updated map views, additional 3D landmarks as well as better graphics. So you should probably be hitting up your mailbox more often than usual to grab your stick as soon as it arrives, and if you'd like to prepare yourself, then head on over to the source where an installation walk-through video awaits. [Thanks, Letalis]
Ford brings SYNC and AppLink to Europe
America, I hate to say it, but you're no longer special. Sure, maybe you'll always be number one in Ford's heart, but the company has got to sow its wild oats, and that means heading across the Atlantic with SYNC and AppLink in tow. The manufacturer hopes to sell 3.5 million SYNC equipped vehicles in Europe by 2015, starting with the B-Max which will ship later this year. SYNC will be available in nine different languages at launch and will quickly spread to other vehicles.
Hands-on with new NPR and SYNC Destinations via AppLink
Sadly Ford wouldn't let us rest our rumps in the sexy Evos concept, but we did get a chance to shout some commands at its updated SYNC system and play with a few of the new apps. A rep was kind enough to give us a quick demo of the updated SYNC Destinations app, as well as the newly compatible NPR and IHeartRadio apps for the iPhone. Then we were allowed to climb in the driver's seat of the mid-life crisis red 2013 Mustang GT. Last time we played with AppLink it was on a simple, monochrome screen, had just three apps available and things didn't go smoothly. In the year since, the lineup has grown significantly and now it's on a big, color touchscreen. But, more importantly, it worked pretty much flawlessly (only stumbling briefly over the word "Nevada"). In particular we really enjoyed the ability to pull up any NPR station we wanted -- we were getting a little home sick for WNYC. Head after the break to see it in action.
TuneIn Radio comes to Ford SYNC AppLink, brings 50,000 radio stations with it
Unhappy with the radio selection in your auto? If you're rocking a Ford equipped with SYNC AppLink and a smartphone, that selection is about to get a whopping 50,000 bigger thanks to TuneIn Radio. An updated version of that app enables support for Dearborn's auto interconnect which'll allow drivers to tune into AM, FM, HD and Internet radio stations. And naturally like everything else SYNC, it'll be just as happy taking commands over voice. The updated app should hit the App Store soon, but we'd imagine an update to the Android version isn't far out.
NPR delivers on-demand news for Ford SYNC AppLink (video)
When traditional FM waves aren't enough to quench your thirst for news, NPR's new Ford SYNC AppLink products might just become your favorite watering hole. Now, current event junkies of the proper vehicular persuasion can gain voice access to NPR's entire library of shows and live streams of each affiliate across the country. While these features have previously been available in the organization's apps for Android and iOS, the SYNC integration brings functionality such as the ability to hear the latest news simply by saying "hourly news" at the chime, along with other commands such as "stations" and "topics." An introductory video starring NPR's Audie Cornish and Scott Simon follows the break, along with the full PR.
Ford Sync clears the four million mark, aims to double that within three years
Ford's Sync in-car connectivity system enjoyed quite a prosperous little 2011. Last January, installations of the service topped the three million mark. Now, almost exactly a year later, Sync has come to a full four million vehicles, and it's looking to expand its reach even further. Ford announced the milestone at CES yesterday, projecting that the voice-activated, Microsoft-powered software will clear the nine million hurdle by as early as 2015. It may sound like a bold prediction, but considering that Sync is slated to roll out to markets in Asia and Europe this year, it certainly seems realistic. For more details and back-patting, check out the full PR after the break.
Ford's SYNC Destinations gets updated, now computer optional
Last year, Ford unveiled the SYNC Destinations app, which allowed owners to use their smartphones to preview and sling locations previously entered on syncmyride.com, to equipped vehicles. This year's update simplifies that process, removing that last step, as locations can now be entered and sent to the vehicle entirely on device and sans website. Also new, is the ability to access and report traffic incidents from "every major interstate, highway, arterial and city street in North America" and support for a plethora of new languages like French and German. It also supports Ford's AppLink which uses your phone's smartphone connection for quicker directions downloads. PR detailing all the new features awaits after the break.
Telenav's Scout: personalized GPS for you and your car, too
Telenav's Scout launched today at CES in Las Vegas with dreams of becoming your go-to personalized nav tool. What's personalized nav you ask? Scout opens to a customized collection of your favorite routes displayed in real-time, with traffic, local search, contacts, music and the like at your fingertips on the My Dashboard screen. Coupled with the initial free iPhone offering is Scout.me, a web site that allows users to make plans with friends via social sites such as Facebook and Twitter as well as being able to organize and save their favorite spots. The next time the app is started all that content will automagically appear on your phone. Telenav's end goal here is a consistent user experience across multiple platforms: no more endless typing and re-adding your details to all of your disparate navigation devices. With today's announcements of Telenav's partnership with Ford for its SYNC system, properly equipped handsets will connect to any compatible car where the center console will display your Scout environment as well as maps with voice guidance or text prompts. The app should be in Apple's app store today, but unfortunately there's no word on when we'll start seeing this in cars.
Ford to open R&D lab in Silicon Valley come 2012, wants to be closer to the action
Following in the footsteps of Verizon and AT&T, it's now Ford's turn to open up its very own research center here in Silicon Valley. A prudent choice too, as Dearborn's become more invested in advanced infotainment, not to mention bonafide smartphone apps. Slated to open in the first quarter of 2012, it reckons the center will help "prepare [Ford] for the next 100 years" as it scouts out new technologies and partnerships with local startups and universities alike. Mum's the word on exactly where the new R&D lab will reside, but those interested can learn more about it and its sister facilities -- whom Ford lovingly dubs its "innovation network" -- in the PR after the break.
