• SYNC^® 3 – Ford’s all-new communications and entertainment system – features faster performance, conversational voice recognition, intuitive smartphone-like touch screen and easier-to-understand graphical interface
• Other new features include Siri Eyes-Free capability for Apple iPhone, seamless integration of AppLink^™ for a simple way to control select smartphone apps, and software updates via Wi-Fi
• SYNC 3 to launch in North America on 2016 Ford Escape and Fiesta – on sale this summer – providing a safer way for our customers to connect with their smartphones in order to keep their eyes on the road and hands on the wheel

DEARBORN, Mich., June 2, 2015 – Ford announced today its all-new SYNC^® 3 technology debuts this summer in North America in the 2016 Ford Escape and Fiesta. The new communications and entertainment system is faster and easier to use with enhanced response to driver commands.

With the launch of SYNC 3 technology for Escape and Fiesta, Ford is making its newest in-car connectivity system available initially in one of its highest-volume vehicles, the Escape SUV, and in its most affordable vehicle, the Fiesta. 

“SYNC always has been about providing a safer way for our customers to connect their smartphones in order to keep their eyes on the road and hands on the wheel,” said Mark LaNeve, Ford Motor Company vice president, U.S. Marketing, Sales and Service. “Customers continue to tell us they want this technology, and they want it to be fast and easy to use – like a smartphone. SYNC 3 delivers on that request.”

SYNC 3 features all-new hardware and software and builds on the capability of the industry-leading technology that launched in 2007. Today, Ford SYNC is in more than 12 million vehicles on the road globally. Click here to see SYNC 3 in action.

Easy-to-use voice recognition

Ford SYNC – the industry’s first system to widely and most affordably offer voice-activated technology to control smartphones – is becoming more capable by minimizing the number of steps needed to carry out commands. Selecting music, making a call or searching for a destination is easier than ever with SYNC 3, thanks to a simpler command structure.   

Ford will also introduce AppLink to Canada with SYNC 3. AppLink allows customers to connect their smartphone to their vehicle and control select compatible apps using voice commands or buttons on the vehicle display screen.

AppLink automatically discovers smartphone apps and displays each app’s unique graphics and branding on the vehicle’s LCD screen.

Additionally, when connected to an Apple iPhone, SYNC 3 offers seamless integration of Siri Eyes-Free capability. Drivers can seek Siri’s help by simply pressing SYNC’s “Push to Talk” steering wheel button – much as they would on an iPhone to initiate a Siri session.

Intuitive interface

SYNC 3 is optimized for hands-free use. Plus, the all-new capacitive touch screen technology offers an experience similar to a smartphone or tablet.  

Quicker response to touch, as well as voice commands and smartphone-like gestures including pinch-to-zoom and swipe are central to SYNC 3 – along with crisp, modern graphics. SYNC 3 reduces on-screen complexity and prioritizes the control options customers use most.

The home screen features three zone choices – available Navigation, Audio and Phone. Tile-like icons are featured on the screen, with a quick access function tray along the bottom making for a more straightforward user experience.

Phone contacts are searchable via a simple swipe of the finger to scroll through the alphabet. With “One Box Search” Navigation capability, SYNC 3 users can look up points of interest or enter addresses in much the same way they use an Internet search engine.

Additional features, including subscription-free 911 Assist

As with earlier generations of the technology, SYNC 3 provides subscription-free emergency service 911 Assist^®.

The customer’s Bluetooth-connected phone is used to dial 911 in the event of a significant accident – alerting first responders with the vehicle’s location.

SYNC 3 now also features the ability to update its software via Wi-Fi. Once a vehicle is set up with credentials for a home Wi-Fi network accessible in a customer’s driveway or garage, for example, it can automatically download updates.