Ford launches Sync 3, switches from Microsoft to BlackBerry
US Car manufacturer Ford has announced Sync 3, the latest edition of its communications and entertainment system.
Ford’s new system signals a switch in allegiance too, with the company dispensing with Microsoft Auto and opting for BlackBerry’s QNX platform instead. Early signs suggest that it has been a good move for the car manufacturer.
Prior to Sync 3, Ford’s earlier attempts at touch-screen infotainment left a little to be desired. Problems ranged from minor bugs to sporadic hard resets of the system during fairly critical driving tasks such as navigation.
Back to basics
The issues with previous versions were likely the reasons for Ford going completely back to the drawing board on the infotainment system. The company called on 22,000 customer comments and suggestions, along with insights from research clinics, market surveys and tech industry benchmarking.
Despite receiving a substantial root-to-branch overhaul of almost all of the software, Ford has chosen to persist with its AppLink technology which, according to Julius Marchwicki, the manufacturer’s global product manager for AppLink, has been improved too.
“Overall, AppLink is faster, more responsive and easier to find your apps,” he said. “The overall design of SYNC 3 allows for better integration with smartphones – resulting in a more user-friendly experience.”
Mobile-like user experience
Sync 3 is said to operate in a manner that regular users of mobile phones and tablets will be accustomed to, with the adoption of pinch to zoom in the navigation and a menu bar that displays at all times.
As with past editions of Sync, the software uses a driver’s Bluetooth-connected photo to dial 911 if an accident occurs. Although Sync3 also sends information about airbag deployment, the type of crash and the number of safety belts in use.
There is bad news for owners of older Ford cars, though, with the company stating that Sync 3 will only appear in new vehicles rolling off the production line next year.
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