New Ford SYNC app ready for free download

SYNC TDI connects a customer's Bluetooth-enabled cell phone to Ford's Service Delivery Network voice portal delivering turn-by-turn driving directions, real-time traffic, business searches and favourite news, sports and weather – all through simple voice commands.

TDI will be available on all 2010 Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles equipped with SYNC, including the new Ford Taurus, which arrives in dealerships this summer.

Upgradeable take-it-with-you technology started with Portable Navigation Devices (PNDs). But despite their affordability, their appeal is declining.According to iSuppli, PND's share of device shipments will drop to 30% by 2011 from about 50% in 2007.

Smartphones, which bundle cell phone, Internet, navigation and other must-have data services, will grow to account for36% of total navigation system shipments by 2011. But even these don't offer customers in-vehicle integration and control of navigation capabilities.

Ford SYNC TDI ties together the advantages of both technologies, introduces even more options and offers it in an affordable, widely available package.

Autonomous Vehicles