Sunday, May 31, 2009

Ford offers SYNC TDI update

Ford is enhancing the capabilities of its vehicles by offering its popular Sync system with the new Sync TDI application (SYNC 3.0 version) , which adds traffic, directions and information in a simple download, now available for download via the Ford SYNC website.


SYNC TDI pairs with drivers' Bluetooth handsets to connect to Ford's Service Delivery Network to bring them turn-by-turn driving directions, real-time traffic information, business searches and new, sports and weather updates. Users can call up these features with voice guidance through their handsets --- at no subscription cost for the first three years of vehicle ownership.

To operate the system, all the driver needs to do is state the voice command “services”. Stating “traffic” will then send a text message to the driver’s phone with information such as location and severity of accidents or new road construction causing areas of heavy congestion. This message is then broadcast over the vehicle’s audio system.

If a user states “directions,” a turn-by-turn route for a desired journey is downloaded and is spoken to the user over the vehicle’s audio system and displayed on the central information display near the radio.

The latest system also enables drivers to personalize and categorize their favorite media topics, such as sports, weather and news using voice commands or through the Sync website.


The automaker's 2010 models equipped with the SYNC entertainment system will ship with the update already installed, though owners of some early-launch 2010 models will need to perform the update themselves.

The SYNC system is available as an option on select Ford, Mercury and Lincoln vehicles for $395, and includes a GPS receiver for the 2010 model year.

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