Reports: Ford To Announce New Cars Powered by Microsoft’s Sync

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According to media reports, Ford and Microsoft will unveil at the Detroit auto show and the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas a hands-free Bluetooth wireless system and in-vehicle operating system developed by Microsoft. WSJ reports that the system will be called "Sync," and will eventually be offered as an option on all Ford vehicles. According to the Wall Street Journal report, the owners of Sync powered-cars will be able to use the system to place hands-free cell phone calls or transfer information wirelessly. Sync is powered by Bluetooth - the same technology that powers wireless cell phone headsets. Quoting sources familiar with the companies’ plan, MarketWatch informs that Ford's Sync system will debut next year as an option on at least two Ford brand models that are to be refreshed in 2007 - the Focus and Five Hundred sedans. At the Geneva International Motor Show, in March 2006, Microsoft's Automotive Business Unit introduced Windows Mobile for Automotive, a software platform and hardware reference design that helps the automotive industry speed the development of safer, more reliable and affordable in-car infotainment systems for drivers and passengers worldwide. In August 2006, Apple announced it has teamed up with Ford Motor Company, General Motors and Mazda to deliver seamless iPod integration across the majority of their brands and models. Ford and General Motors will feature iPod integration in the majority of their 2007 models in the US, while Mazda’s entire global 2007 lineup of cars and SUVs will offer iPod connectivity.