The latest generation of Ford’s innovative communications and entertainment system, SYNC 3, has helped earn its developers a Bronze Stevie Award for best new software product of the year at the recent International Business Awards. NNG, a global automotive software provider, claimed the honour for the navigation software that comes as standard on all new Ford vehicles, available in over 50 countries.
With the launch of SYNC 3 last year, Ford’s intelligent infotainment technology saw a greatly-improved, fully-integrated navigation system, including 3D support with landmarks, a Mecca compass, and enhanced junction view providing detailed lane visuals and guidance. Navigation also auto zooms out when the next manoeuvre is more than three kilometres away to making it easier to see the full route.
SYNC 3 provides full off-road support in Africa, and full dead reckoning support – which means being able to navigate even after the loss of GPS signal – in some markets. The software can cater to the unique and specific needs of each market, handling local languages – both text and voice guidance – enabling simpler controls for drivers.
Created in 2002 to honour positive contributions of organisations and working professionals worldwide, and to generate public recognition of their achievements, the Stevie Awards have grown to become one of the most coveted international business accolades.
In awarding Ford’s in-car infotainment system the Bronze Stevie, jurors were impressed by how SYNC 3 managed to create a consistent user experience across a vast number of regions with different cultural background and languages.
“SYNC 3 is designed to complement modern smartphones, with an intuitive touchscreen and an exciting array of new features, and includes more than 3.5 million POIs and over 3.5 million kilometres of road in the Middle East,” said Ziad Chaaban, EES Engineer, Product Development, Ford Middle East and Africa. “Winning a Bronze Stevie award is great recognition for NNG, and confirmation of the high standard of innovative technology available in all new Ford vehicles.”
