CNET -- Ford's had a change of heart. When every other automaker went running for smartphone apps that connected to a vehicle via an in-car modem, Ford chose to hold off, claiming the smartphone was the method for providing vehicles with Internet-based functionality. That's all changed with the release of Sync Connect, which will launch with the 2017 Ford Escape unveiled at the 2015 Los Angeles Auto Show.

"There's a recognition that we need to be multifaceted in regards to connectivity," said Don Butler, Ford's director of connected vehicles and services. "With where we see the industry going, built-in connectivity will become an increasing part of what we do. I think the approach that we've taken at Ford has been consistent with our customers and their needs."

Sync Connect is similar to apps from other automakers in that it allows the owner to access certain vehicle functions and information from the owner's own smartphone. Available features include remote lock and unlock, vehicle status including tire pressures and fuel level, vehicle location and remote start.

Its standout feature is the ability to remote start a vehicle according to a schedule. You can, for example, program your car to start at 7:15 every morning for your 7:30 departure. Other automakers offer remote-start capabilities, but none let you schedule it ahead of time. Ford also believes its user interface will help set it apart from its competitors.

The app will also receive over-the-air updates, which require the car to be running. However, you won't lose infotainment functionality while that happens. According to Ford, the updating takes place on a module that operates independently of the Sync 3 infotainment system, so the driver won't miss anything while it's happening.

Read the rest of the story here: http://www.cnet.com/news/ford-announces-sync-connect-smartphone-app/

CNET -- Ford introduces the newest generation of its Sync infotainment system this week, Sync 3, with navigation, digital audio, hands-free phone and app support. The new system comes in response to negative feedback about the previous MyFord Touch system.

When Ford launched the first generation of Sync in 2007, it was revolutionary, letting drivers use voice command to makes calls from a Bluetooth-paired phone by contact name and request music from a USB-connected drive by album, artist and track name. Those features have become common in cars today. The second generation of Sync, in conjunction with the MyFord Touch graphic interface, was not so successful, eliciting criticism for cluttered buttons and slow touch response times.

The touchscreen response times proved greatly improved partially due to a hardware change from a resistive to a capacitive touchscreen. Behind the scenes, the system runs on a Texas Instruments OMAP 5 dual-core processor with 2GB of RAM.

The software interface has been completely rewritten. The home screen shows navigation on the left side of the screen, with audio and phone cards stacked on the right side. Touching any of these areas launches the associated function. A menu ribbon running along the bottom of the display also gives access to these functions, along with climate controls and apps. While this homescreen is well-designed, many of the subscreens drop the home button, requiring a few quick presses on back buttons to return.

Read the rest here: http://www.cnet.com/news/new-ford-sync-improves-nav-adds-visual-apps/

Enhancing Visibility, Comfort, and Safety for Drivers of Large Vehicles

Boca Raton, FL – [July 10th, 2025] – ZZ2, a leader in automotive technology solutions, proudly announces the launch of its latest innovation: the ZZC-SY4C, a cutting-edge camera interface designed specifically for Ford vehicles equipped with SYNC 4 systems. This advanced add-on empowers drivers with up to three external camera views, significantly enhancing visibility and maneuverability—especially for those driving large vehicles with limited external sight lines.

The ZZC-SY4C is engineered to seamlessly integrate front, side (left/right), 3rd brake light camera, truck cargo bed camera or trailer camera into Ford’s SYNC4 factory infotainment system, offering a meaningful and useful level of safety, comfort, and driving awareness. Whether navigating tight parking lots, connecting your 5th wheel or making safer lane changes, this system equips drivers with real-time visual feedback from blind spots and the front of the vehicle.

" The ZZC-SY4C reflects our commitment to transforming customer needs into robust, OEM-integrated solutions," said Tiago Sperandio, Vice President of ZZ2.

Key Features Include:

• Three camera inputs compatible with front, side, truck bed camera (3rd brake light camera) or rear aftermarket cameras
• Smart triggers based on gear selection and turn signals
• OEM-level integration with Ford SYNC 4 infotainment systems
• Multiple camera activation methods, including automatic, steering wheel controls, or external buttons
• Built-in Video-In-Motion (VIM) mode for added flexibility, unlocking the keyboard while in motion. (we need to be more specific with this video in motion feature)

The ZZC-SY4C also includes customizable DIP switch configurations and a comprehensive set of installation options that make it versatile for both everyday drivers and professional installers.

With demand growing for advanced driver assistance features, the ZZC-SY4C gives Ford vehicle owners a convenient and cost-effective upgrade path to better awareness and peace of mind behind the wheel.

The ZZC-SY4C is now available through authorized ZZ2 dealers and distributors. CLICK HERE

For more information, visit https://zz-2.com/products/zzc-sy4c or contact us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

About ZZ2
ZZ2 is a pioneering automotive tech company focused on enhancing in-vehicle connectivity, driver safety, and OEM integration. ZZ2 empowers modern drivers with smart, seamless technology built for today’s vehicles.