Ford has announced that Apple’s iPhone-connected, in-dash CarPlay system will finally make its debut on Ford models, with the 2017 Ford Escape becoming the first vehicle to get the feature.
The addition of CarPlay opens up a new world of connectivity for would-be buyers of the 2017 Escape. Ford saw to that when it announced back in January 2016 that apps like CarPlay and Google’s Android Auto platform would be integrated into the automaker’s new SYNC3 infotainment system. In CarPlay’s case, iPhone users can access a gamut of useful tools and apps under Apple’s iOS software. The usual iPhone features and apps like phone calls, messages, music, maps, podcasts, and social media apps can now be accessed through the Escape’s in-dash display. Take note that all of these features will come on top of the gizmos and gadgetry already included in the SYNC3 system.
CarPlay integration also serves Ford and its customers very well as it allows users to immerse themselves into the next step of Ford’s mobility and connectivity systems. Ford didn’t give a reason as to why the 2017 Escape was chosen as the first model to get CarPlay, but a combination of segment popularity and strong sales numbers suggest that debuting on the 2017 Escape would introduce CarPlay integration into SYNC3 to a bigger segment than most of Ford’s other models. The Escape belongs to one of the most popular segments in the U.S. today, and the crossover’s strong sales numbers makes it the perfect test bed of sorts to introduce CarPlay to Ford customers. Only the F-Series pickups and the Fusion sold more units in February 2016 than the Escape.
Other Ford models are expected to receive CarPlay and Android Auto in the future, but for now, it has been decided that the 2017 Escape, which goes on sale in May 2017, will be the first in line.
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