Pandora and various other Internet radio services are already available in the dash of several Ford automobile models, via the Sync AppLink, alongside AM, FM, HD Radio and Sirius XM channels. Now Pandora says Ford is expanding Sync to its F-Series trucks, making voice control of Pandora an available feature across the line.
The truck-category expansion includes the F-150 (pictured), which has been the best selling truck in the United States for the past 34 years. The 2012 F-150 and others in the F-series line of trucks are scheduled to be available at dealers beginning this month.
Sync AppLink enables Pandora listeners to play their personalized streaming stations through the vehicle’s entertainment system and control it by voice commands or the radio buttons and knobs. Connectivity to the vehicle is made possible via Bluetooth or USB. Sync is compatible with Android, BlackBerry and iPhone smartphones.
Other Ford products currently equipped with Sync AppLink include the 2012 models of Fiesta, Mustang, Fusion, Fusion Hybrid, Expedition, E-Series and Shelby GT500. The 2012 Lincoln MKZ, MKZ Hybrid and Navigator feature Sync AppLink as standard equipment.
“Ford has done a great job in developing, deploying and educating listeners about the connected Sync AppLink system. The vehicle is the traditional home of radio, and it is thanks to forward-thinking partners like Ford that Pandora listeners are now able to seamlessly enjoy their personalized stations in the vehicle,” said Pandora Executive Vice President of Business and Corporate Development Jessica Steel.
RBR-TVBR observation: There’s now lots of competition with traditional radio stations in the auto dash – but that was the case back to the days of 8-track tapes. And having Internet streaming capability in the dash also means access to thousands of streams from AM and FM stations. May the best content win!
