► Google to bolster Ford’s tech offering
► To be used in cars and other business
► Six-year partnership begins in 2023
Ford has announced a partnership with Google, that’ll see the tech-giant powering both the connected services and infotainment systems of the Blue Oval’s forthcoming cars.
The partnership can be split into two areas; Ford using the Google’s Cloud service behind its infotainment system, and also using Google apps that’ll directly affect the user experience. The six-year partnership will kick-off properly in 2023 – and include the Lincoln sub-brand.
The former is the less glamourous, but more powerful end of the newly announced collaboration. It means upcoming Ford cars will have access to a robust cloud-based platform, and also be able to draw on the tech firm’s vast data, AI and machine learning expertise.
Google’s services will help Ford its connected and personalized services for customer, but they’ll also be deployed in everything from employee training to enhancing business models.
In addition, Google’s most recognized apps will be front-and-centre in Fords- regardless of price point. Maps is set to become the primary navigation service, and Ford infotainment systems are also set to make use of Google Assistant voice control software.
The Play store will be accessible – likely via the centre console – though it’s likely only selected apps will be compatible – currently the case with Android Auto. It remains to be seen whether this is the death of Ford’s Sync infotainment system – and Ford is going the way of Polestar’s Google HMI platform – or just a heavy facelift.