New onboard entertainment direction for Ford
With the New Year just around the corner, automobile manufacturers everywhere are looking forward to releasing their newest models and other projects.
But while some years ago, the latest car would be the word on everyone’s lips, today we are focusing more on the latest on-board upgrades to our ever more advanced machines. In particular, on board computers and entertainment software have developed exponentially in the 21st century, and Ford has made a controversial announcement regarding its own systems.
Earlier this month it was announced that Ford would be ending its current contract with Microsoft and instead using Blackberry technology for its in-car entertainment.
Two previous versions of the system used Microsoft technology, but the latest version, Sync 3, will use a version of BlackBerry’s QNX operating system. Ford unveiled the latest in-car entertainment and mapping system at the beginning of this month, revealing a a whole host of features but choosing not to draw attention to the change of supplier.
The in-car entertainment system is apt for travellers from all walks of life, and is particularly apt for gamers who can plug in their tablets. With new additions such as a capacitive touchscreen as well as ‘pinch and zoom’ gestures, passengers have a whole host of gaming options available ot them. Indeed, with the gaming culture we see today, in which many people are now turning to online hosts like JackpotCity, the new technology is apt for powering the ever-increasing demand for online gaming.
Moreover, the software is of particular use to Apple fans, who will be able to get updates over Wi-Fi and even integrate intelligent personal assistant Siri into the system. Music fans will also be able to reap the benefits of compatible services with Spotify, iHeartRadio and NPR One.
Ford has remain tight-lipped about the specifics of why it decided to go with Blackberry, despite rumours starting in February when Bloomberg reported the change. In a short statement, representatives at Ford simply said: “Hardware and software decisions were based on identifying the technology that would best meet the expectations for performance by our customers.”
Microsoft and Ford have had a close relationship since 2007 when the first Sync system was launched. However, though Ford will no longer be working with Microsoft for its onboard entertainment system, the pair will continue to work together in other areas. Ford has said that Microsoft “remains an important partner and software maker” and also stated that it would carry on using its Azure cloud-based operating system for “mobile experiences” such as connected cars.
