Oh, the wonders of texting: It's fast, it's easy, it's simple. And, with the most recent (free) update to the Ford SYNC software, drivers can safely receive text messages while driving. The Message Access Profile (MAP) streams and reads incoming texts out loud, allowing the driver to keep both hands on the wheel and both eyes on the road.

The technologically-advanced SYNC, G1 V3.2.2, works with Generation-1 equipped Ford models from the 2011 and 2012 model years. By voluntarily integrating the Bluetooth standard MAP software into the system, Ford is taking an aggressive stance on the issue of texting and driving. And they're not the only ones. "Texting is becoming a ubiquitous part of our day," says Michael Foley, Ph.D., Executive Director, Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG), "So it stands to reason the remote message access profile is an essential addition for handsets, automobiles, headsets and aftermarket car kits."¹

Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG), reports that more phone companies (HTC, RIM, Samsung and LG, to name a few), have joined the effort recently. Michael Foley, Ph.D., executive director, SIG, explains the importance of this collaboration, "Texting is becoming a ubiquitous part of our day?so it stands to reason the remote message access profile is an essential addition for handsets, automobiles, headsets and aftermarket car kits."¹

The advanced voice-recognition software that comes standard with Ford SYNC understands regular commands like looking up phone numbers or calling your voicemail. But those are just some of the thousands of commands it understands. Say, "I'm hungry," to find a restaurant. Sick pet? Tell it to "Find a vet." With this newest update, all you have to do is tell it you want to "Listen to text message," and it will read it aloud. Need to respond? Keep your hands on the wheel and tell it to "Reply to text message" with one of fifteen preset responses like "Where are you?" or "I'm running late."

Pretty cool, right? Bickford Ford thinks so too, which is why we invite you to stop by and see us at 3100 Bickford Avenue Snohomish, WA 98290 to learn more about SYNC-software features available on select new Ford models.

If you have questions about your SYNC software or would like to learn more about the new Ford models with SYNC capabilities, contact Bickford Ford today! Or, just drop by our showroom, located at 3100 Bickford Avenue Snohomish, WA.

Source:  ¹http://media.ford.com/article_display.cfm?article_id=35451