Detroit Auto Show: Hot Sync - Ford, Microsoft Co-Develop New Telematics System

Ford and Microsoft have teamed up to bring Star Trek The Next Generation technology to your vehicle. No, not warp engines, think more along the lines of, “Computer, where did I leave Dark Side of the Moon?” Microsoft software will soon be blended into select FoMoCo. vehicles, like the 2008 Focus, to bring consumers all their favorite MP3s via simple voice commands.

What’s more, a well-placed thumb to the steering wheel will transfer conversations from your cell phone to thine chariot’s sound system with no interruption to the call. The system interacts with multiple devices wirelessly, and the software updates itself when you stop by the dealership for oil-changes (and Microsoft Security Updates?).

Ford’s Sync, as the option will soon be known, can scroll through music files (no matter how well- or disorganized they are). Additionally, it’s capable of deciphering special ringtones, so that when your ex-Snookypoo calls, you can send them directly into voicemail. The promise of universal connectivity is probably the most interesting aspect here. Whether you’re an every-two-year iPod purchaser or a no-name penny-pincher, both your MP3 player and cell phone (with Bluetooth technology) are meant to work with Ford’s Sync. Seamless integration, as they say.

Additionally, if you have friends who can spell complete words in their text messages, Ford and Microsoft report that the Sync will read them aloud, if you so prefer. No news yet about a back seat “Holodeck,” but totally unsubstantiated and fictious rumors claim the option package is rather unlikely due to pricing considerations

Lincoln Zephyr/MKZ Tops J.D. Power's "Best Nav" List

J.D. Power released their list of the best factory-installed navigation systems and the Lincoln MKZ (nee Zephyr) Pioneer unit ranks at the top of their list. The study, now in its eighth year, identifies six factors that contribute to overall customer satisfaction. They are (in order of importance): ease of use, routing, system appearance, speed of system, voice directions and navigation display screen.