Tag Archives: ford

Ford SYNC Brings Multiple Apps to the Dashboard at CES

CES 2017,

Ford logoIt might seem surprising to find a car manufacturer like Ford at CES, as the convention is primarily focused on gadgets and consumer technology. But Ford has been present at CES for several years now, focusing on its Ford SYNC in-dash system. Todd met up with Stefan from Ford where Stefan showed off some of the latest developments in SYNC. Including:

  • Integration with Amazon Echo (Alexa voice commands)
  • Driver Score app calculates a score based on your driving behavior that could be used to negotiate coverage rates with insurance companies (SYNC only provides scores to vehicle drivers, it doesn’t report directly to outside parties)
  • Speed Pass+ integration allows drivers to find nearby Speed Pass-enabled fueling stations where they can see which pumps are available and select and set up a pump before pulling into the station
  • SYNC has a built-in mobile navigation app that integrates with third-party apps so drivers can select the navigation app(s) they prefer to use

Ford SYNC is currently available in many vehicles and will be added to more vehicles as the company continues to roll out and improve the platform.

Todd Cochrane is the host of the twice-weekly Geek News Central Podcast at GeekNewsCentral.com.

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Ford SYNC Integrates with Amazon Echo at CES

CES 2017,

Ford logoIn our previous post, we touched briefly on the latest version of Ford SYNC, and how the platform will integrate with Amazon’s Echo (Alexa) service. In this video, Todd spoke with Jack from Ford who gave some more detailed information on how SYNC will be able to integrate with Echo:

  • Voice recognition allows drivers to give hands-free voice commands using Alexa
  • Drivers will be able to access third-party services and functions thru Amazon Echo that allow them to do things like turn on garage lights in connected homes
  • Drivers will be able to use home or office-based Echo units to ask about the status of their SYNC-enabled cars to get information like battery charge rate, etc.
  • Alexa integration will allow drivers to ask their cars where nearby stores, restaurants, and other locations are and seamlessly get directions to those locations that are then sent to the car’s built-in navigation system

Ford is planning on adding Alexa/Echo integration to Ford SYNC 3 in the summer of 2017.

Todd Cochrane is the host of the twice-weekly Geek News Central Podcast at GeekNewsCentral.com.

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Ford SYNC 3 Drives Choice at CES

Auto, CES 2016, , ,

Ford LogoThe third iteration of Ford’s SYNC in-car communication and entertainment system, SYNC 3, came into the dealer showrooms during 2015 in the latest “2016” vehicles. At CES, further updates were announced with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration available as a user OTA upgrade. Todd and Marlo go for a ride with Kenneth Williams from Ford.

The new SYNC 3 gives choice to consumers, supporting both iOS and Android. SYNC 3 automatically chooses what to launch based on the connected device, so if the phone is an iPhone, then it’s CarPlay, if it’s a Nexus, then Android Auto. The AppLink technology works with over 90 app providers to launch apps from the attached smartphone but display on the SYNC console. Consequently the owner gets the experience that they’re used to on their phone or tablet.

The AppLink protocol is being opened up and made available to other car manufacturers and Toyota is already on board. It’s an interesting move and could be a major benefit to consumers as it creates a standard in the market that app developers can work to.

Todd Cochrane is the host of the twice-weekly Geek News Central Podcast at GeekNewsCentral.com and Marlo Anderson rounds up the latest technology news at The Tech Ranch.

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Ford Sync Version 3 comes to CES

Auto, CES 2015, , , , ,

Ford LogoIn times past, cars had heaters and radios. if you were lucky, maybe a cassette player. Getting directions involved winding down the window and asking a passerby. Today’s vehicles have zoned environmental controls, multi-source AV, GPS with maps and drive train telemetry to three decimal places. All this is fantastic but while you’re figuring out the way to San Jose, you may lose sight of the road.

Ford wants its drivers and passengers to have a great journey but to get to their destination safely, and in an unprecedented move, Ford invited customers to their advanced car simulator in Dearborn to help design the next version of their infotainment system. With over 20,000 pieces of feedback, Ford developed SYNC 3 with safety and ease of use front and center. Big touchpoints keep hands on the steering wheel longer and voice commands now produce what the driver wants rather than purely what is said.

Todd chats with Gary from Ford about the company’s approach to the latest iteration of Ford SYNC, which will be available on 2016 model cars.

Interview by Todd Cochrane of Geek News Central for the TechPodcast Network

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2015 Ford Mustang Invades CES 2014

Auto, CES 2014, , , ,
Ford
Ford

50 years of Mustang and Ford has decided to go back to the original drawing board for this upcoming model. Putting the items you expect into the Mustang which upgrading the technology for easy, safe and fun driving.

I talked with Rakesh Patel of Ford Motor Company about the changes to the 2015 Ford Mustang. He walks us through the changes — switches that feel like airplane controls, new look of the dashboard streamlined, everything from the front to the taillights that make you realize a Ford Mustang is coming down the road. Even the “Mating call of the Mustang”. Is included.

New engines of Mustang are available with 2015. The 2.3 liter EcoBoost engine brings 305 horsepower and 300 lb foot torque to your driving style. New rear and front suspension is also a new addition to the Mustang.

Ford wants you to know there is a Mustang without it saying Mustang. Your senses will know — from sight to sound.

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More at Ford – www.ford.com

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Ford on Researching Innovation

CES 2012, Mobile, , ,
Ford
Ford

We talk with Johannes Krisstenson at Ford talking about research at Ford. They are displaying some wonderful research information of what vehicles are coming in the future. My Ford Touch is one of those things.

We talk about the new Ford Fusion and how it shows some of those features. 100 MPGe, smart energi charge, and more. Pulling out of the driveway, the car is quiet – no emissions. We talk about missing the sound of the rev.

The input for research comes from not only a think tank, but also customers. Research and listening are two things that bring innovation of tomorrow in vehicles.

Interview by Jeffrey Powers of Geekazine and Andy Smith of Geocaching World

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Ford Apps NPR News, Roximity, Stitcher, iHeartRadio in Ford Sync

CES 2012, Mobile, , , , , ,
Ford
Ford

Ford Sync was also updated this year. Five new apps were introduced at CES. They include:

  • iHeartRadio – the Clearchannel station app, so you can get your local radio stations wherever you are
  • NPR News – Several NPR shows right at  your fingertips
  • Roximity – Personalized, time-sensative offers when in proximity to a place
  • Stitcher – Internet radio for mobile
  • Tune-In – Listen to your favorite radio stations

There is also an app called Sync Destinations, which the location-based service gives you better turn-by-turn directions.

Sync is available on 2012 models of Mustang, Fusion, F150, and others. They are also working on an aftermarket solution to put Ford Sync in your older vehicle.

Interview by Jeffrey Powers of Geekazine

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My Ford Touch Improves Menus, Updates Available on All Cars

CES 2012, Mobile, , , , , ,
Ford Electric
Ford

While at the Ford Booth, we got to see the new updated My Ford Touch system. Back in November, they updated the software so consumers could move around the screen without having to look at the display.

The four corner system gives you a proximity so you know where to press. One corner you will have navigation, another will see temperature settings.

The in-car navigation system also has been improved. With additional 3D view, you can get an idea which direction you are heading.

Jeffrey Powers of Geekazine goes through the systems with Bridget on MyFordTouch. Best part is this update is available now. You can download and install, or you can head to your Ford dealer and they will install for free.

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Ford Focus Electric at 100 MPGe

CES 2012, Mobile, , , , ,
Ford Electric
Ford Electric

Eric from Ford talked with Jeffrey about the Ford Focus Electric at CES. Items discussed included the internal battery system, the interactive charging system inside, strength of the vehicle, recycled material, and how these vehicles can be 100% made in the USA.

Over 50% of the body is high-strength steel. The battery is around this steel, which will protect you and the battery in case of a crash. With the new Ford assembly line (a video Jeffrey recorded in December), a power train vehicle build can be switched at a moments notice.

The best part is the Focus Electric will get you over 100 miles per charge. That, along with recycled bottles and rubber making the seats, floormats and gaskets around your car, this is a truely green vehicle for you.

Interview by Jeffrey Powers of Geekazine

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Ford Focus Electric at CES 2011

CES 2011, , ,

Check out the new Ford Focus Electric.  This vehicle is due out in late 2011.  The biggest feature of course is that its driven by batteries.  The dashb0ard is showing all kinds of information but what caught my eye was the flying butterflies.  Sean from Ford was very kind to take over the microphone and give is the grand tour of the new features of the new Ford Focus.

The price is not set yet but one reason, which allows Ford to keep prices down is the fact that they have found a way to use the same production line for all their Ford vehicles.  One production line for any type of Ford whether it be electric or something else.

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