After years of uncertainty, Ford has announced it’s in-car infotainment system, Ford Sync 3, will gain support for Apple Carplay and Android Auto.
The company says all 2017 Ford models sold in North America and featuring the Sync 3 platform will have both programs installed.
There will also be an option for current owners of Ford cars with Sync 3 to upgrade later this year.
Sync 3 controlls various infotainment features like media playback, car settings and navigation.
Related: Apple CarPlay vs Android Auto
CarPlay allows users to access Siri and Maps, and control the car’s entertainment and GPS system, while Android Auto performs a similar role, providing access to a host of Google services.
Both programs essentially take over the car’s system, changing the display to a new home screen which features an array of apps and services.
The first model to feature both programs will be the 2017 Escape, which will go on sale in the Spring.
CarPlay was first announced in 2014 and there has since been widespread anticipation about Ford using the service in its vehicles.
Related: Android Auto Hands-On
As well as announcing CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Ford has also upgraded its own AppLink platform.
AppLink acts in a similar way to Apple and Google’s services by allowing mobile apps to communicate with the car.
New additions to the service include an AAA app and Concur – a business expenses app which can track mileage.
There will undoubtedly be more news over the coming days as CES gets underway so make sure to check out our CES 2016 hub for all the latest updates.
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Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
