Ford now supports SYNC 3 with software updates to compliment Apple CarPlay and Android Auto™ for model-year 2016 and 2017 vehicles.
Customers may now update by downloading the software program to a USB drive, going to a dealership or with the over-the-air Wi-Fi connection. This is Ford’s first software update via Wi-Fi. It offers an opportune and automated option to existing upgrade methods
Customers with model-year 2016 Ford vehicles can update on the new SYNC 3 version 2.2 to achieve this support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
“Our SYNC 3 software platform was created to be an easy task to update and then we can get our customers the most recent features, functionally and security enhancements,” said Don Butler, executive director, Ford Connected Vehicle and Services. “With over-the-air updates, we could deliver additional features to customers device while they carry on using their vehicles.”
Android Auto
Compatible with Android™ devices 5.0 far better, Android Auto brings the Android experience to the vehicle safely and easily. It offers Google Maps, Google Play Music, phone, messaging and third-party apps projected within the car’s built-in display and available via voice controls. With a simplified interface, large touch targets, Google voice search and easy-to-use voice controls, Android Auto is made to minimize distraction while around the road.
Android, Android Auto, Google Maps and Google Play are trademarks of Google Inc.
Apple CarPlay
Apple CarPlay is compatible with iPhone 5 and later on models running iOS 7.1 or better. Apple CarPlay gives iPhone users an intuitive approach to make messages or calls, use voice-guided navigation, tune in to music, and send and receive messages. The convenience allows the trucker to stay focused within the road. Users can control Apple CarPlay from the in-vehicle display or via Siri voice control. Apple CarPlay support needs a USB hub upgrade available through Ford dealers.
SYNC 3 currently supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay on all model-year 2017 Ford cars for example the Fiesta, Focus, Fusion and Mustang, SUVs like the Escape, Explorer and Expedition, F-Series trucks and Ford’s electrified vehicles.
Receiving updates over Wi-Fi
Ford has brought SYNC upgrades since 2009, but here is the first time this company is offering an update via Wi-Fi. In Wi-Fi-enabled vehicles with Automatic System Updates started up within SYNC 3, the machine will periodically connect into a customer’s designated Wi-Fi network to confirm for updates. If an update can be obtained, the machine automatically downloads the update without anyone’s knowledge over a period of time without the customer interaction. And SYNC 3 was created to perform the update given that Wi-Fi is connected prior towards the vehicle turning off, therefore you don’t have to keep your vehicle running to the update to happen.