CES 2016: Ford SYNC 3 to Feature Both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay

After this new update, the third generation of Ford SYNC will support both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Ford has announced that all future Ford models from 2017 will get the new SYNC 3 infotainment system as standard offering and will come with both smartphone connectivity platforms pre-installed. As for the customers who already have a 2016 Ford model with SYNC 3, Ford will release a software upgrade that will be available from later this year.

In a way, we have to say that this is truly a smart move for Ford as by offering both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, the carmaker can now cater customer of both spectrum. But that is not all, in addition to offering both smartphone connectivity platforms pre-installed, the new SYNC 3 will also come with an additional feature called AppLink. The AppLink will allow the car's infotainment system to support all native applications, and has been built on an open platform called SmartDeviceLink.

So with the SmartDeviceLink, SYNC 3 will now come with Siri Eyes-Free app separate from Apple CarPlay that will allow drivers to navigate the system with voice commands. Also the system will feature the new SYNC Connect phone connectivity that promises to allow owners the ability to remote-start the vehicle, unlock doors, locate the parked vehicle, and even display fuel levels via the phone app. In addition to that in-car phone connectivity will also allow drivers to use Google Maps or Apple Maps via the vehicle's navigation, along with streaming music and make phone calls.

Apart from that Ford has also announced that that Toyota, QNX, and UIEvolution are adopting the SmartDeviceLink technology for their respective infotainment systems. Additionally the system also comes with Wi-Fi connectivity that will allow for the car to automatically update from the garage or driveway when linked with a wireless home network.

With the new updated SYNC 3, Ford Motor Company finally adheres to its promise to bring better smartphone connectivity and technology to its line-up. Judging by Ford's recent interest in bringing new and innovative technologies to the developing markets as well, we can soon expect to see models in Ford's Indian line-up feature the new SYNC 3.