Ford Tires Of Microsoft Sync Issues - Move To BlackBerry OS In Future Models

Ford Motor Co. plans to ditch Microsoft Corp. for BlackBerry Ltd. for future upgrades to its Sync voice-activated system, according to a source with knowledge of the plans.

The Dearborn automaker for years has been plagued with software problems on Sync and its MyFord Touch infotainment system that have stained the company’s vehicle quality ratings. Ford could make the switch from Microsoft to BlackBerry and its QNX operating system this year or next. QNX, acquired by BlackBerry in 2010, has quickly begun replacing the Windows operating system as a popular choice for in-car automobile software.

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carsnyc - 2/24/2014 1:15:36 PM

+4 Boost

From MS to Blackberry? How's that an improvement?

igo55 - 2/25/2014 5:21:46 PM

0 Boost

This is a great move by Ford. For those of you that dont know, Blackberry owns and bases its current phone architecture off of QNX. QNX is currently installed in Audi, bmw, toyota, porsche, land rover, honda to name a few. QNX is also very stable and from my experience with the current crop of blackberry10 phones, very intuitive. If anything, apple and google are both playing from behind in the automotive space.

Agent009 - 2/24/2014 2:21:11 PM

+4 Boost

The MS Sync user interface appears to be so confusing to drivers that they are singlehandedly killing the brand in the JD Power studies.

Yes, we know that they have nothing to do with reliability but JD Power studies are no longer about reliability. They are about "issues" and if you can't work the radio, it is an issue.

quizz - 2/24/2014 11:36:01 PM

+3 Boost

The question is not why Ford is leaving MS, but rather, why are they replacing it with Blackberry??? Why not iOS?

The likelihood that Blackberry is an improvement is far worse than MS.

mre30 - 2/25/2014 2:57:17 PM

0 Boost

They probably sought a "bid" from Apple, Blackberry, Nokia (the leading supplier of OEM sat-nav systems), and Blackberry offered the best deal.

The user interface problem is a pretty simple one to fix and the blackberry O/S is stable, proven, heck they are probably doing it for free - just to get their name plastered to the dashboard of every FoMoCo car and truck. Shrewd move on Blackberry's part.

Ford - please don't let blackberry supply the touch-screens. Its a known fact that Blackberry touch screens go crazy in direct sunlight (due to the heat) and in windy conditions (such as when dust and/or pollen are blown around).

Better yet - don't do a touch-screen and just copy the excellent Mercedes "command" user interface.