Ford has decided to introduce the Sync 3 infotainment unit in its entire 2017 model year portfolio sold in the USA.
The American automaker will offer the Sync 3 system in light trucks, SUVs, electric vehicles, and passenger cars of the 2017 model year. The system will receive over-the-air updates, and is compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Ford says its approach to platforms has allowed it to roll out the new unit across its range without any setbacks.
Successful models from the Blue Oval, like the Fusion, Escape, Mustang, and Explorer are already available for order from the 2017 model year with the Sync 3 system. Models like the Focus, Edge, F-150, and the all-new Super Duty will arrive later this year with the system.
The Blue Oval has decided to cut the “guesswork” for consumers, and introduce Sync 3 availability for its entire 2017 range. This is a big step for a volume automaker, as some premium manufacturers do not have this bragging right.
Other brands allow users to order an infotainment unit compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto only for some models, and the optional feature can become expensive in some cases.
Ford says the Sync 3 system comes with all-new hardware and software improvements for the speed of operation and convenience. The voice recognition feature has also been improved, says Ford. Apps like Pandora, Spotify, AccuWeather, Ford Pass, and AAA member have been introduced through the SYNC AppLink.
As you already know by now, Apple CarPlay is compatible with all the iPhone models above the iPhone 5, and it allows users to access the device’s interface on a vehicle’s touch screen. Using voice control, all of Siri’s functions are available, as well as numerous third-party apps.
Meanwhile, in the Google corner, any device that runs Android 5.0 or higher is compatible with Android Auto. Users can do just about the same things as iPhone owners, but for their proprietary apps and services. Sadly, none of the compatibility features described above are available for Windows Phone users, but at least they have Solitaire on their devices, don't they?
Sebastian's love for cars began at a young age. Little did he know that a career would emerge from this passion (and that it would not, sadly, involve being a professional racecar driver). In over fourteen years, he got behind the wheel of several hundred vehicles and in the offices of the most important car publications in his homeland. Full profile
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