Ford Sync app gets Telenav navigation, voice control
updated 06:20 pm EST, Mon January 9, 2012
App syncs with in-vehicle system
Ford has revamped its Sync connected features for 2012, bringing new features to the mobile apps and in-vehicle systems. The car maker has chosen a new mobile app, Scout, that will enable users to take advantage of turn-by-turn navigation based on Telenav's map databases.
The utility provides a dashboard with recommended driving times based on traffic information, which is updated continuously with new data. Users can also access points of interest, save favorite places, or control music playback without leaving the app.
Certain Ford vehicles also provide a deeper level of integration with Sync AppLink, enabling users to control smartphone apps using voice commands or buttons on the steering wheel.
Scout is initially available by itself on Apple's App Store for the iPhone and other iOS devices, however it will soon be added to Sync AppLink. Directions will be vocalized through the vehicle's speakers, while turn-by-turn directions will show on the dashboard display.
Ford has also introduced an updated Sync Destinations app, which is now supported by the AppLink platform. Users can access live traffic reports and destinations using voice commands, or report traffic incidents to share with other AppLink users.
Sync AppLink will be outfitted on 10 vehicles for 2012. The Scout integration will be available later this year, though the iPhone variant is now available as a free download from the App Store.
