Ford Sync AppLink adds Spotify to its playlist

By Stephen Edelstein February 25, 2013

Ford Sync AppLink adds Spotify to its playlist — Image used with permission by copyright holder

Ford drivers will soon be able to access Spotify from their cars. At the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, the Blue Oval announced that the popular music service will soon be accessible through its Sync AppLink, allowing drivers to play music hands-free.

AppLink allows Ford drivers to access an ecosystem of smartphone apps using Sync voice-recognition, and Spotify is the latest app to appear in the jungle.

Integrating Spotify will require a Premium account and an iPhone equipped with the appropriate app. Syncing the phone with, uh, Sync allows drivers to control the app with their car’s infotainment controls.

Voice commands can take care of obvious tasks like starting or stopping music, turning “shuffle” on, or selecting a playlist. Other functions allow driver/users to make better use of Spotify’s music library. Sync can find similar music, or tell the driver what’s playing if he or she zones out.

Spotify’s social media functions will also be a part of this road-going version. If a friend sends a song, playlist, album or artist to the driver’s inbox, the car will read it to them and ask if they want to play it. Sync can already do this with incoming text messages, proving that the car is no longer a sanctuary from social media.

If talking to a car sounds a little weird, there are also standard audio controls for changing tracks, playing and pausing songs, and presets.

Ford says it has over one million Sync AppLink-equipped vehicles on the road already. Other available apps include, Pandora, iHeart radio and Stitcher. Sync AppLink is available on most Ford cars, including the Fiesta, Focus, Fusion, Mustang, and C-Max. It’s also available on the Expedition SUV, E-Series van, and F-Series trucks.

Topics

Stephen Edelstein

Contributing Editor

Stephen is a freelance automotive journalist covering all things cars. He likes anything with four wheels, from classic cars…

Cars

Best dash cam deals: Protect your ride from just $39

Rexing V1 dash cam

There are a lot of difficult drivers on the road, and a great way to protect yourself from potential insurance issues is with a dash cam. A dash cam will ensure everything that goes on while you’re driving is recorded. The best dash cams can typically record in multiple directions, making them a great option for Uber drivers who want to keep their customers safe and protect themselves from potential legal issues as well. You can save big on a new dash cam right now, as there are quite a few dash cam deals worth shopping. Below you’ll find what we feel are the best dash cam deals to choose from right now, so read onward for more details on how to save.
70mai Smart Dash Cam 1S -- $40, was $50

The 70mai Smart Dash Cam 1S is the cheapest option in this list, but it doesn't feel like it because it's packed with features. The dash cam, which supports microSD memory cards of up to 64GB, records footage at 1080p Full HD resolution with night vision capabilities thanks to its Sony IMX307 image processor and f/2.2 aperture. With its built-in G sensor, the dash cam will detect an accident and lock footage to prevent overwrites. You can use voice commands to ask the dash cam to take photos or to start recording videos, and you can use its accompanying app to watch real-time footage and to download files to your phone.

Cars

Rivian R2 vs Hyundai Ioniq 5: Should you wait for the Rivian R2?

Rivian R2

Rivian has taken the wraps off of the Rivian R2, an electric SUV that's similar to the much-loved R1S, but smaller and, crucially, cheaper. But the R2 goes up against some serious competition. The likes of Hyundai have been building solid EVs for some time now -- including the Hyundai Ioniq 5.

The R2 and the Ioniq 5 each make a compelling case for themselves, and they're likely to end up being similarly priced if the Ioniq 5 doesn't get much cheaper and the R2 does end up being sold at $45,000. To be fair, the cars are pretty different -- the R2 is more of an SUV, while the Ioniq 5 is much more crossover-sized. But because of their similar price, you might be deciding between the two. How do they compare? We put the Rivian R2 and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 head-to-head.
Design
The differences between the Rivian R2 and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 are perhaps no more apparent than when it comes to design.

Cars

The 6 best remote car starters in 2024

Best car remote starters

While some modern vehicles come standard with remote start features, it's still relatively uncommon. That's a shame because if you live somewhere where cold weather, snow, and ice are frequent concerns, a remote car starter is one of the best auto accessories you can have. If you're not familiar with them, a remote car starter works similarly to a key fob, except it will actually start your car from a distance instead of just unlocking the doors or trunk. That means you can start your car from the warm comfort of your home or office before venturing out. If you live somewhere hot, you can even start your car and let the AC run for a little bit. You'll never enter a freezing cold or scorching hot vehicle again.

The best remote car starters have long ranges, replaceable batteries, and other handy features — but how do you know which is best for you? We’ve compiled a list of the best car starters in a range of prices and features. Keep in mind that while you can install some yourself, some will require a professional.
The best remote car starters in 2024