When Ford released MyFord Touch last year, it was met with a mixed reception. The Blue Oval certainly took notice and promptly replaced MyFord Touch with Sync 3. At the 2016 Consumer Electronic Show held in Las Vegas, Ford announced that it will be adding an enhancement to Sync 3 with the inclusion of Google’s Android Auto and Apple’s CarPlay.
Through the Sync 3 infotainment system, users have full control over functions like navigation, car settings, and media playback. Starting with the rollout of the 2017 models, Android Auto and CarPlay will be infused, meaning drivers will be able to take control of settings like activating Google Maps, streaming music via Spotify, and voice based messaging through their smartphone. This makes for a smooth driving while preventing unnecessary distractions like fiddling with the radio knob.
The upgrades go beyond the Sync 3. The AppLink platform will also be getting a boost of its own. AppLink works similarly to CarPlay, and with the latest additions, the former will include extra goodies like searching for waypoints and coordinates to the nearest fueling station. It is also through AppLink that users can download native apps.
With either Android Auto or CarPlay, simply plug in your iPhone using a USB cord, and your phone’s menu system will show up on the vehicle’s display. From there, all controls can be managed through Siri voice. To enable Android Auto, a mobile device with 5.0 Lollipop or higher is required. With CarPlay, an iPhone 5 or later model is needed.
Ford leads the way when it comes to technology. If you want to explore the full features of the Sync 3 upgrades, then speak with one of our Ford dealers near Rancho Cordova. Remember, all 2017 Ford cars for sale will have the new tech upgrades, so that is something to keep an eye on if you plan on buying a new vehicle this year.
