Ford has said it will offer the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on its new SYNC 3 connectivity platform across all models sold in the US market in 2017.
Ford is offering the Apple and Google smartphone integrations across all models for 2017 despite having not offered the integration on 2016 models. It is also going for a comprehensive rollout rather than making it available across some of the range only.
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Ford says its platform focused approach to SYNC 3 means a fast rollout across all vehicles – with rapid deployment of new innovations via Wi-Fi over-the-air updates
CarPlay allows Apple iPhone users to get directions optimised for traffic, make calls, send and receive messages, and listen to music, all in a way that allows you to stay focused on the road with Siri or a touch screen. Android Auto enables Google voice search, maps, music and more through steering wheel and touch screen controls.
Some Ford models such as the Escape, Fusion, Mustang and Explorer are already available as 2017 model-year vehicles at dealerships and others like the F-150, Focus, Edge and all-new 2017 Super Duty will arrive later this year.
“SYNC 3 is already a major leap forward in terms of functionality, simplicity, and user experience – Ford’s promise that every new model now ships ‘Smartphone-ready’ is huge,” said Jeffrey Hannah, Director of North America for global automotive technology research firm SBD. “Ford is not taking the traditional approach of introducing Apple CarPlay and Google Android Auto on a few piecemeal models or as an expensive option on luxury vehicles only. The guesswork for consumers is over – if you buy any 2017 Ford vehicle with SYNC 3, you drive off the lot with both of these innovative technologies ready to go.”
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