Ford Sync API Open to Devs in 2010

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Ford will be opening its Ford Sync API to developers in 2010, possibly leading to the release of a Sync app store as well as vehicle control of third party mobile apps.  Currently, controls on Ford Sync-enabled vehicles can be tied to contacts and music on mobile devices.  With an open API, this kind of integration would be extended to third-party mobile apps for the iPhone, Android phones and others.

The Ford Sync API will first be open to students at the University of Michigan, Dearborn, who have already created two apps called SYNCCast and FollowMe.  SYNCCast ties the vehicle’s stereo knobs and voice commands to internet radio on an iPhone via Bluetooth, enabling an easier control option than fiddling with the iPhone touch screen.  FollowMe is even more progressive, enabling multiple Sync-enabled vehicles to stay in formation with guided navigation technology based on a leader car.  If you’re following a Sync-enabled vehicle, FollowMe will give turn-by-turn directions to locate that car should you get separated.

With the popularity of app stores for iPhone, Android and other mobile operating systems, its likely that this move by Ford could lead to greater app integration with the Ford Sync system.  Whether this will lead to a Ford Sync app market of its own or simply Sync-specific apps for mobile phones, this much will be decided by developers and Ford in concert.