Ford Updates Sync 3, Offers It in All 2017 Models

Steph Willems
by Steph Willems

Ford just ran through its 2017 product lineup, shouting, “You get upgraded Sync 3, and you get upgraded Sync 3…!”

Today, the automaker announced that a new version of its Sync 3 infotainment system will be available on every 2017 Ford product. The system is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, meaning your phone never had it so good.

Ford offered a peek at the system at January’s Consumer Electronics Show. The automaker wants to standardize its equipment across the lineup, rather than offer the system in select models. Think of it as a freeing of the apps.

For the unenlightened, Apple CarPlay works with iPhone 5 and later models. Users can use their iPhone to access Siri voice controls, Apple Maps, Apple Music, phone calls and messaging, plus third-part apps.

Android Auto, available on phones with Android 5.0 and higher, allows users to access Google Maps and music via their vehicle’s screen. Voice controls for phone calls and messaging are included in the technology.

For 2017, Ford tweaked Sync 3’s software to make the system faster and offer sharper voice recognition abilities. Supposedly, this means you don’t need to speak as clearly when giving voice commands.

The automaker introduced its Sync 3 connected vehicle system in late 2014, after taking the previous MyFordTouch system behind the barn. Owners found that system annoying, and Ford wasn’t willing to replace hair torn out in frustration.

[Image: Ford Motor Company]

Steph Willems
Steph Willems

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  • Dave W Dave W on Jul 25, 2016

    When we bought our Fiesta in 2011 we had to search to find one with a manual transmission, and without MFT. Funnily enough nearly all the bad press, less then reliable ratings, and general slagging the car received were based on MFT and auto trans issues.

    • JimZ JimZ on Jul 25, 2016

      MFT wasn't offered in the Fiesta until 2014.

  • Trucky McTruckface Trucky McTruckface on Jul 25, 2016

    After insinuating since January that Carplay would be a free downloadable upgrade for any 2016 Ford with SYNC 3, Ford's website now has the following disclosure: "Owners of 2016 models with SYNC 3 are required to to perform a software upgrade (available late 2016) and purchase a hardware upgrade through your dealer." As the owner of both a 2016 Ford and an iPhone, my reaction to this news, if quoted here, would get this comment banished to moderation...

    • See 2 previous
    • Adam Tonge Adam Tonge on Jul 26, 2016

      @TMA1 That's what I was told at dealerships too. I'd b!tch and try to get it for free.

  • TDIGuy TDIGuy on Jul 26, 2016

    Works with Google Maps or Apple Maps? Does that mean it does not have a GPS built in? Not a big fan of these things for several reasons. Mainly anything that depends on cellular data loses its functionality during our numerous road trips to the US and roaming is expensive. Plus I don't have an Apple or an Android phone, which isn't Ford's fault, but it kills the usefulness of the technology for me if it is phone dependent.

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    • TMA1 TMA1 on Jul 26, 2016

      I don't think AA/Carplay actually add much over SYNC3. The Ford system handles all the music streaming needs through the phone without those two services. Either way, the weak link is going to be the phone, not the car. And at least satellite radio is an option. And while I do like the Nav, it can be a bit cumbersome to find a place without an address. But the fact that I can find the nearest grocery store without having to use my phone is pretty cool. I probably wouldn't have optioned it though, had I ordered my car.

  • EBFlex EBFlex on Jul 26, 2016

    Still light years behind uConnect. In every measurable category, uConnect is a superior product. And the graphics that the new MyFord Touch has are pathetic. Looks like a Windows 3.1 era computer. It's amazing Ford cannot even buy a competent infotainment system.

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    • EChid EChid on Jul 27, 2016

      @EBFlex Can you specify what aspects you found frustrating? I'm interested to know.

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