Ford Announces Support For Apple CarPlay, Android Auto

Ford has announced its car interfaces now will also be supporting Apple CarPlay and Google’s Android Auto.

The two platforms are designed for users to be capable of using their phones to access information from the native interface of the vehicle while on the go. Phone calls can also be made while driving by the Sync in-vehicle connectivity system of the auto giant.

Ford is adding these to provide its users higher integration among car functions and smartphone apps. The auto giant aims users can also remotely lock and unlock their cars, start the vehicle and check fuel levels too by using their smartphone.

The new addition now will give iPhone users access to messages, phone calls, maps, music through Siri voice or a touch screen. For the Android users it will be now easier for users to access Google’s services including maps, music streaming and voice search.

Ford’s executive director for Connected Vehicle and Services, Don Butler, said the auto giant aims to allow users to use the Sync Connect technology with the phone they are comfortable with.

The CES at Las Vegas is just a week away and it is expected several automakers will be putting on display their technologies.

To grab more attention at the event Ford has announced new Sync AppLink applications that make use of voice-activated technology for a hands-free bridge between apps and users.

According to Ford, there are over 15 million Sync-equipped vehicles on roads and by 2020 there may be about 43 million in total.