FORD announces which models will first be available with its third generation of Sync.
Meanwhile, Toyota commits to evaluating integration opportunities enabled by the SmartDeviceLink system, an open-source app development platform managed by Ford subsidiary Livio.
Significance
Ford announced that Sync 3 system will launch in the new Ford Escape and Fiesta models, on sale in summer 2015. By the close of 2016, the system will be available on all Ford products, according to the Detroit News.
In a statement, Ford indicated it chose Fiesta because it is the brand’s most affordable car and the Escape because of its high volume. Pricing will depend on model and trim levels.
Sync 3 boasts faster performance, conversational voice commands and an intuitive smartphone-like touchscreen with an easier-to-understand graphical interface, Ford says. Many of the system details had been previously announced.
Separate from the Ford announcement of which vehicles will first feature Sync 3, Toyota and Ford both announced Toyota’s intent to explore integration of Ford’s open-source version of its AppLink system, called SmartDeviceLink (SDL) technology, into future Toyota products.
SDL is an open-source platform which Ford created to facilitate smartphone applications, including entertainment, parking, and other internet data for in-car entertainment systems; it enables app developers to create app software once which works across multiple infotainment systems.
In a statement, Toyota said that the 3 June announcement builds on Toyota and Ford’s August 2011 agreement to collaborate on development of next-generation standards for in-car telematics.
Implications
Ford has much riding on Sync 3, as it is the third iteration, and earlier versions of the ground-breaking system were prone to quality and glitch issues. Sync 3 includes both earlier Sync versions and MyFord Touch products.
Ford’s announcement also follows recent announcements from Hyundai, GM and Mitsubishi confirming implementation of Google Android Auto and Apple CarPlay systems into production vehicles—features promised some time ago and now reaching production.
Both CarPlay and Android Auto functionally project a smartphone onto the vehicle infotainment screen to enable operation of certain smartphone apps, including navigation and entertainment.
