Ford's SYNC System integrates with cell phones and media players
The SYNC entertainment and communications system, which was developed by Ford and Microsoft, debuted in January of 2007 at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. The update that is planned for May 26th represents the fourth major version of the SYNC system, and it gets some new features that will please any driver of a Ford, Lincoln, or Mercury vehicle.
The first big feature is GPS navigation with turn-by-turn directions. This is nothing new to those that have used other satellite navigation systems, but by adding this functionality to the SYNC system, Ford makes the system one of the most comprehensive entertainment/communications/information systems in a car today. The next big feature dovetails nicely with the turn-by-turn directions; real-time traffic updates that will help you avoid traffic jams and slowdowns.
The SYNC System in a Lincoln Navigator
The third big feature is integration with Bluetooth-enabled smart phones that will allow the SYNC system to use the phone in order to get information from the internet like weather updates, sports scores, and other information. This information is either shown on the display screen or read out loud over the audio system by SYNC.
Another iteration of a SYNC System
Owners with a SYNC-equipped car can download the update from this website on May 26th. Then transfer the files to a thumb drive and then to the SYNC system. Ford representatives have said that updates to the SYNC system will occur every 6-12 months. One of those future updates may include functionality with Pandora, an internet radio provider.
