Ford Launches Sync v.2.0 at CES in Las Vegas

Ford's Sync infotainment system has been a hit for the brand. Developed in

One of the best options available to new Ford buyers is the Sync system. It's being upgraded for the new year. (Photo: Ford)

collaboration with Microsoft, Sync offers the ability for Ford, Lincoln and Mercury owners to connect their Bluetooth telephones to make calls, send and receive text messages and link up their MP3 devices into the system. It's all rolled up in a voice-activated interface that doesn't require an expensive navigation system. Currently offered on 12 cars, it's going to be on almost every Ford product sold in North America by the end of the year. Besides being one of the best options that can be had on a Ford product, Ford has just announced that it's time for version 2.0, which was announced at this year's Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas by Microsoft chairman Bill Gates this week.

The first update to Sync involves something called 911 Assist, a feature that allows Sync to dial 911 in case of an accident. Because Sync is wired into the vehicle's on-board computer, it can detect things like airbag deployment and rollovers. Provided that the driver's cell phone is hooked up to Sync and

Bill Gates of Microsoft introduces the updated Sync with 911 Assist at the CES in Las Vegas. (Photo: Ford)

in working order, it will automatically dial 911 with a ten second period time gap, which allows users to cancel the call if desired. If the driver is severely injured, a pre-recorded message will be played; following the message, occupants can talk to 911 officials. OnStar, GM's popular safety/communications system is very similar in application, but there are several differences between the two, including the removal of the “middle operator”, so to speak. Currently with OnStar, if a car is in an accident it will dial into OnStar, whose operator will then pass the call along to emergency officials. Ford claims that due to the directness of 911 Assist, it has a speed advantage in potentially life-or-death situations. Also, because Sync relies on a buyer's cell phone for service, there are no additional fees involved in this system.

Sync v.2.0 will also be able to send you health reports about your car. (Photo: Ford)

The second update to Sync is the Vehicle Health Report, designed to help keep Ford product owners on top of their maintenance and service. Once again, using the hard-wired connection to the car's on-board computer, Sync compiles this information, which can include over 24 points of information, and then sends it to Ford via a 1-800 number through a connected cell phone. The resulting report, also featuring steps to follow for maintenance, can either be emailed to the customer or sent via text message. Ford is setting up the system to allow for language selection, and it can be programmed to automatically perform the checks at regular intervals, such as those aligned with routine scheduled maintenance for a specific vehicle. The setup of the Vehicle Health Report is done through the Sync website, www.syncmyride.com.

Because these updates to Sync are software upgrades rather than physical updates, the software in version 2.0 can simply be uploaded to any existing Sync system ensuring that owners of prior systems aren't left out in the dark. This can be done at any Ford dealership.

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