Ford Showcases SYNC AppLink in India

Ford has showcased SYNC AppLink at Mobile Developer Summit in Bangalore. This is nothing but a voice-activated technology for hands-free connection between driver and smartphone applications. Ford's SYNC AppLink will enhance the driving experience for AppLink-enabled vehicles in India starting from 2014. Apps from ESPNcricinfo, MapmyIndia, burrp!, Glympse, TuneIn Radio are planned to be introduced on the SYNC AppLink platform in India. With this, Ford becomes the first automaker in India to launch an open program allowing software developers to directly interface with the vehicle. This will allow you to stream Internet radio, listen to songs, get cricket scores, get traffic updates, search for restaurants, hotels and more without fumbling through phone menus while driving.

"We are excited about bringing SYNC AppLink to India and will offer industry-exclusive voice control technology for smartphone apps thereby providing drivers the convenience to access content and information while on-the-go. SYNC AppLink is an exciting addition to Ford’s class leading connectivity technology and goes further in personalizing the in-car experience.” says David Huang, senior manager at Ford Asia Pacific’s Technology and Business Development, Connected Services and keynote speaker at Mobile Developer Summit 2013.

Ford will invite software developers to create voice-activated mobile apps for Ford vehicles. The information to learn about the AppLink application programming interface (API) will be available on the Developer Program website, http://developer.ford.com. The developer site features online forums to discuss app development and related issues. Once submitted to Ford, the app will be tested and reviewed for usability and suitability for Ford AppLink-enabled vehicles. After Ford works out a distribution license with the developer, the app can be released to customers.

Ford already has more than 7 million SYNC (powered by Microsoft) enabled vehicles around the world, expected grow to 9 million by 2015. Developers working with SYNC AppLink will be able to create apps across a wide range of categories to reach this growing base of Ford owners.