Integrating their cars with their consumers lifestyles has been a priority with Ford Motors. Taking this one step further, recently in a Mobile Developer Summit in Bangalore, Ford announced the Sync AppLink. It is a new voice-activated technology which creates a connection between the software-compatible smartphone applications and the system in the car. The software will be launched in cars in India in 2014.
Ford’s Sync Applink software will allow a user to connect their smartphone with it and access smartphone applications like Internet radio, music, news alerts,maps, navigation apps etc. All of these would be controlled by voice commands. The carmaker introduced this Sync technology in the recently launched compact SUV EcoSport and is planning to install it in its other cars as well.
As a part of Ford’s Global Developer Program and to add inputs to the Sync AppLink system in their apps, Ford has also opened the AppLink API on its Developer Program website and has invited contribution from other app developers . In India the Sync AppLink is planned to be introduced with ESPNcricinfo, MapmyIndia, burrp!, Glympse, and TuneIn Radio at the beginning.
Mr. Vinay Piparsania, Executive Director, Marketing, Sales and Service said, “India today has more than 65 million smartphone users who want to stay connected wherever they are. Keeping them in mind, Ford has been driving consumer focused innovation in automotive technology. The journey, which started with the introduction of Bluetooth connectivity in Ford Figo, has gone on to introduce the first in segment Voice Control in the Global Fiesta and the world class SYNC technology in Ford EcoSport. With every step, we have allowed seamless connectivity, entertainment and convenience and are excited to take it forward with SYNC AppLink keeping our customers in mind.”
We have shown a glimpse of the Sync technology in our video review of the Ford EcoSport which can be seen here.
