Ford Dumps Sync .....

[GURPS]

Why Ford is dumping Microsoft for Blackberry's QNX OS
Ford joins a slew of other automakers by moving toward open source via the Linux-based QNX in-vehicle operating system


Ford, among the first car companies to offer the ability to pair mobile devices with its in-vehicle infotainment (IVI) system, plans to dump Microsoft's Windows Embedded Automotive OS as its Sync IVI platform and adopt Blackberry's Linux-based QNX CAR Platform for Infotainment, according to reports by Bloomberg and the Wall Street Journal.

Apart from bugs in the Microsoft-based Ford Sync system -- causing poor voice recognition and the need for an occasional reboot -- since it was unveiled, the stories cited a bigger reason for the change: Cost and limited functionality.

IVIs contain most software among devices in a car, requiring upwards of 40 million lines of code.

Carmakers using products from software providers such as Microsoft today have to pay license fees and depend on third parties for upgrades and customization. Such companies, therefore, are left at the mercy of their vendors.

Ford's Sync IVI system has never been recommended by Consumer Reports magazine. In fact it recently slipped to its lowest ranking ever by the magazine.

 

[TWL]

Ford joins a slew of other automakers by moving toward open source via the Linux-based QNX in-vehicle operating system

QNX actually predates Linux by about 9 years.

 

[huntr1]

But will older cars be able to have their OS switched?

 

[StadEMS3]

But will older cars be able to have their OS switched?

I doubt it, my 2 2010's with Sync/NAV systems aren't supported with updates anymore. If I wanted to update the maps it's like $200. I just bought a new 2013 Fiesta last weekend and it's Sync system is working fine.

 

[GURPS]

But will older cars be able to have their OS switched?

change the radio ?

I know costly

 

[blazinlow89]

change the radio ?

I know costly

Yes and no. My last radio I spent the money for the harness to retain all the features and everything it was $80. Scoche came out with one that does all the same stuff but only cost $30. I rewired the stereo with a basic harness that bypassed all the BS. I lost the RAP support and the chime but the harness cost me an entire $5. Radio with BT was under $250.

Wouldnt it be easier just to integrate smartphone technology into the cars dashboard. Many people have interfaced tablets into their OEM vehicles with no issues. Of course then you may be talking about a data plan for your car at that point.

 

[GURPS]

I lost the RAP support and the chime but the harness cost me an entire $5. Radio with BT was under $250.

RAP ?

forgive my ignorance ... my DD is a 1995 Saturn

 

[GURPS]

Wouldnt it be easier just to integrate smartphone technology into the cars dashboard. Many people have interfaced tablets into their OEM vehicles with no issues. Of course then you may be talking about a data plan for your car at that point.

Nice ....

why not a 'port' or Droid or iPhone that extends the desktop and use the Smart phone for navigation / Streaming Music Services

 

[blazinlow89]

RAP ?

forgive my ignorance ... my DD is a 1995 Saturn

Retained Accessory Power, basically after you shut the vehicle off and remove the key the stuff like the radio, windows and air will continue to have power until a door is opened, or 10 minutes. Have not had it on the Trailblazer in 6 years, the new truck has it though.

Nice ....

why not a 'port' or Droid or iPhone that extends the desktop and use the Smart phone for navigation / Streaming Music Services

No reason it could not be done, they do make carputers now which I think are way overkill. Most android tablets will accept a 32 GB SD card, some a 64, that is more than enough space for the average person.

As for porting over you can easily do bluetooth to bluetooth. Maybe some one could create and app for easier integration, maybe even a hardwire method so you can charge while streaming. There is not limit as to what can be done, its just a matter of having the available products to make it all work.

 

[GURPS]

Retained Accessory Power, basically after you shut the vehicle off and remove the key the stuff like the radio

Ah Yes ....... mom's mini van has that