Tag Archives: sync navigation system

Ford Sync Technology Expands

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Ford has announced that they will be expanding their Sync AppLink software program to an additional ten models for the 2012 new vehicle line up, as well as significantly increasing their development team for the Sync over the next four years. Ford’s Sync infotainment system, first introduced on the 2011 Fiesta, has become popular amongst drivers who demand communication and internet mobility hands free through their smartphones. According to Doug VanDagens, director of Ford’s Connected Services Solutions, the number of apps for the Sync has grown over 150% in the last six months and developers have shown much interest in working with Ford to develop their apps to work with Sync. It is important to develop the Sync system to keep up with the demands of the customer while allowing for easy upgrades in app development.

The Sync AppLink will be available in the 2012 Ford Fusion, Fusion hybrid, Fiesta, F-150, F-150 SVT Raptor, Super Duty, Expedition, E-Series, Shelby GT500 and Mustang. Ford also said it will expand the availability of rear seat inflatable seat belts to three additional vehicles beginning next summer. They will now be made available on the 2012 Ford Flex as well as the Lincoln MKT and MKZ.

GM Debuts MyLink Infotainment System

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Chevy MyLink infotainment systemRivalry to the Ford Sync and the Kia UVO, the Chey Mylink will be featured on the 2012 Chevrolet Equinox and the extended range electric Volt. The new infotainment system will offer many features similar to the popular Ford Sync, such as voice activated music and remote car control functions. The system will work with OnStar, allowing users to download maps and directions to the touch screen. GM hopes to eventually expand MyLink to its entire global lineup with Buick, Cadillac and GMC expected later this year, according to Micky Bly, executive director of electrical systems, hybrids, electric vehicles and batteries for GM.

Ford Sync’s New Rival Kia UVO

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Earlier I talked about Fords new hands free infotainment service, ‘Sync’, and how it is going to make our roads a little safer by giving drivers less distractions. Next week, Kia Motors Corp. will introduce ‘UVO’, a North American competitor to Ford Motor’s Sync. Ford’s exclusive contract with Microsoft expired at the end of 2008 and in May of that year, Microsoft announced that Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group would develop a voice-controlled infotainment system for the North American market. Fiat Auto Group also uses Microsoft technology to power its infotainment service, called Blue&Me.

Like Sync, UVO is based on the Microsoft Auto software platform, known as the Windows Embedded Auto Software Platform. Spokesmen for Kia and Microsoft say the Kia version will have features unique to the South Korean automaker. UVO will debut on an unnamed Kia vehicle sometime in 2010. The automaker will not release specifics until it formally introduces UVO at the International Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.