SYNC debuts on the 2008 Ford Focus
Click here for more information on SYNC.
DEARBORN, Oct. 22, 2007 -- Ford SYNC is on a roll. Just last week, Popular Mechanics honored Ford's new connectivity and entertainment system with a Breakthrough Award for setting a new benchmark in design, creativity, and engineering.
This week, SYNC has won Best of Show in Automobile Technology at the annual DigitalLife show.
DigitalLife is Ziff Davis Media's electronics and digital lifestyle event where the editors of PC Magazine pick their selections for the most innovative, useful and fun products featured at the show.
Ford SYNC, developed on the Microsoft Auto software platform, is being launched this fall in 12 Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles. It is an advanced software platform that provides consumers the convenience and flexibility to bring digital media players -- Apple iPods, Microsoft Zunes, and other MP3 players -- and Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones into their vehicles and operate the devices via voice commands or with the steering wheel's redundant radio controls.
"This year's Best of Show winners represent some of the most exciting technology products on the horizon," said Monica Vila, vice president, Ziff Davis Media. "The quality and quantity of new product announcements at this year’s show indicates that DigitalLife continues to evolve from being a great venue to interact with consumers to an industry gathering place, and one of the year’s major focal points for technology and lifestyle press."
About SYNC, the editors of PC Magazine wrote, "SYNC is a Microsoft-powered in-car communication and entertainment system available on Ford vehicles. Previously, such systems were only options on astronomically priced luxury cars, but Ford has brought it to the masses."
SYNC was introduced to many auto journalists in the redesigned 2008 Ford Focus, a car for the masses if there ever was one. During ride-and-drives for the Focus, the assembled media were generally upbeat about both the car and SYNC.
"The Sync system is a standout technology," said Matt Marchese of The Car Lab. "I found it very easy to use and intuitive. This is definitely the future available right now, today. Everyone is going to have this sort of system in a few years. Is good to see you leading this, and putting it in Focus is a smart move."
And if Ford hopes SYNC will attract young drivers, the DigitalLife award may prove that the company is on the right track. SYNC shared the winner's podium with such names as Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock (winner for best game) and Gateway Inc. (overall Best of Show winner.)
To read more about this year’s DigitalLife winners, go to www.pcmag.com for the full article.
