Ford today previewed its new SYNC 4 infotainment system, including support for wireless CarPlay and Android Auto. The new SYNC 4 system will be available on select Ford vehicles starting in 2020.
The wireless solution works over Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, allowing an iPhone to be connected to the CarPlay system without using a Lightning to USB cable. Ford joins BMW in offering wireless CarPlay, while brands like Alpine, Kenwood, JVC, and Pioneer also offer aftermarket receivers with wireless CarPlay.
CarPlay is Apple's in-car platform that enables iPhone users to access a range of apps from the dashboard, such as Messages, Apple Maps, Apple Music, Podcasts, Overcast, Spotify, Pandora, WhatsApp, and Downcast. Since iOS 12, third-party navigation apps like Google Maps and Waze are also supported.
SYNC 4 will also be capable of receiving over-the-air software updates.
Related Roundup: CarPlay
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Top Rated Comments
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Just look at the pickup truck sales. In North America, they're very much relevant.Is Ford still relevant anymore?
As for Wireles Car Play, why has it taken so long? Hasn't the feature been a part of iOS 9 and higher?
Ford sells more F150 trucks than any other manufacturer's vehicles.Is Ford still relevant anymore?
SYNC 4 will also be capable of receiving over-the-air software updates ('https://media.ford.com/content/fordmedia/fna/us/en/news/2019/10/30/quick-seamless-over-the-air-software-updates-keep-vehicle-tech-current.html').
…so you can brick your vehicle like a HomePod.