Ford Finally Fixes its Sync Software

Ford’s SYNC2 infotainment system was a disaster. So when I went to Detroit and tested the SYNC3 prototype, I figured there was only one way for this thing to go.

Gone is Microsoft, and the operating system is now Blackberry’s QNX OS, the user interface is minimal and intuitive, the system is WiFi capable, and Ford is first to bring Over-the-Air (OTA) updates to mass market. Short review: hugely improved, and now quite slick.

Read it online at Autonet.

 

Favourite line:

SYNC will have WiFi capabilities, allowing the driver to turn their car into a Hotspot (use WPA2 WiFi security – never connect your car to a public network, and remember you’re legally responsible for Hotspot users.)

***

Remember – YOU are legally responsible for those using your Hotspot, here.

More about the trip to Michigan here.

Back to ‘Keri on Driving’ – Index

 

 

WiFi in Cars is Coming this Summer

I’ve written about it at work, but this was my first experience using it in real life.

For more details, read my column from February.

1 – it functions much like the Hotspot feature on a cel phone: car broadcasts WiFi > passengers connect to car > go online

Securing your car will be similar to securing your home WiFi.

2 – choose this option, WPA2
3 – don’t bother with WEP
4 – if you check this, please leave my blog

Because remember, you are legally responsible for Hotspot users.

Blog tag = WiFi Security

 

 

WiFi Hotspots are Coming to Cars

This year, our cars will be constantly connected to the internet.  It’s going to be HUGE.

By 2021, the auto industry will have have the highest revenue that’s connectivity-related.

It arrived last year via Audi, and Chevy is a front-runner, with 10 of their models to be offered with 4G and LTE connections by this 2014 summer.

Read it online at Autonet.ca

Favourite line:

It will be interesting to see how the data will be priced, because using the rule of thumb that at YouTube video is 1MB per minute, we’d all be driving down the road just hemorrhaging money. 

Remember my column about War Driving? I wonder how this will affect things like that. I also wonder about the security aspect of an always-connected car.  Remember, you are responsible for hotspot users. 

***

Back to ‘Keri on Driving’ – Index

 

 

Soon We’ll be Driving WiFi Hotspots

3G has arrived in cars.

Audi is one of the first with their 2013 Allroad.

See the SIM card slot? That’s it, tada now you’re connected.

Google Maps looks like this.

Remember my column about War Driving? I wonder how this technology will impact things like that.

PS – love that Audi is bringing back the station wagon.

Curious to see how these car networks will be secured.