- Will be fitted in cars from 2020
- Gets twice the computational power than the SYNC 3
Ford has previewed the latest generation of its SYNC communications and entertainment system in Dearborn, Michigan. Called the SYNC 4, the latest infotainment system is slated to go on sale from 2020.
The American carmaker claims that the SYNC 4 is faster, easier and simpler than ever to use. It features cloud-based connectivity, digital user manual and conversational voice recognition, along with navigation and traffic information. It is also equipped with wireless smartphone connectivity features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and AppLink.
In terms of user interface and graphics, the SYNC 4 will differ depending on the vehicle, screen size and customer need. The newest addition is the 12-inch screen with split-screen function. It also allows the user to scroll through nine different features to display as ‘Information on Demand’. In the larger 15.5-inch screens, SYNC 4 gets something called the Adaptive Dash Cards. These cards allow navigating through the horizontally listed icons on the menu underneath the main portion of the screen in individual dash cards.
Also part of the update is standard cloud connectivity since Ford already offers optional FordPass Connect1 service with a 4G LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot in new cars. There’s also an optional facility to share parking space availability and prices through these connected navigation features. However, Ford says that the on-board processing power can continue to offer optimum service even in dead zones or no network areas.
For the first time, Ford is providing wireless connectivity to both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as SYNC AppLink apps such as Waze or Ford+Alexa. This also allows the controlling of various car functions through the smartphone. Also new is the in-built digital user manual as seen on more premium cars. Other services like SiriusXM is also offered with the SYNC 4.
Gary Jablonski, chief engineer for SYNC technology, Ford Motor Company, talking about the new SYNC 4, said, “No matter what size screen Ford customers choose, they will be getting an experience tailor-made for their vehicle. The SYNC 4 puts these high-definition screens to work not only by offering even crisper displays but also by making driving easier with new multi-tasking capabilities”.
