How To Talk To Your Car

Ford's Sync System Updates To Make Voice Dictation Easier

As if voice commands weren't convenient enough, Ford is looking to make the process even easier.  The automaker announced a new version of their patented Sync system will launch with the 2011 Ford Edge which will be available next month. 

The Fords Sync system allows users to connect their cell phones, mp3 players and other electronic devices to their cars and control the entire system with voice commands.  We covered the safety features of the Sync system in a recent blog post.  Here's a video demo from a 2010 Ford Fusion:

The new system will respond to more direct and shorter commands, such as "Call John Smith," "Find ice cream" and "Add a phone," Ford explained. 

The main goal is to help drivers express themselves in fewer words. It will also understand more than 10,000 commands, up from only 100 in the first-generation Sync.

"With this latest generation of Sync, users can control the system without having to learn nearly as many commands or navigate as many menus," said Brigitte Richardson, Ford global voice control technology and speech systems lead engineer.

Ford says they have significantly increased the Sync's speech engine and dictionary.  They want drivers to be able to find local businesses and points of interest with ease.  As more people juggle with mobile gadgets and in-car devices behind the wheel, a hands-free, voice-activated system is one technology that automakers believe can help.  Ford is even adding a "Do Not Disturb" setting to disable all devices.

Stop by West Herr Ford in Hamburg or Amherst and give the new Sync system a shot!