Archive for the ‘Sync’ Category

It's about time that another automaker took on Ford's Sync hands-free communication and entertainment interface. One of the best rival systems—at least in affordable vehicles—comes from an unlikely source: Mitsubishi. The new 2010 Outlander is the first vehicle to get the handy interface.

In a way, it figures. Mitsubishi used to have a geeky reputation in the U.S. and elsewhere; many years ago now, the Japanese automaker stood out from the rest with features like all-wheel-drive, active yaw control, speed-sensitive four-wheel power steering, and high-end audio with steering-wheel controls. With recent features on offer like the excellent...

The dangers of distracted driving are top of mind these days, what with recent studies on the risks, a Department of Transportation summit meeting, and even automakers speaking out against it.

A Congressional bill would cut highway funding to states that do not ban using handheld devices behind the wheel, as 17 already have. Ford now tout hands-free calling as a safety feature, and is rapidly spreading the Sync system that includes it throughout its range of vehicles.

Voice location moves

Now a Stanford University researcher has proposed a way to get drivers engaged in hands-free conversations to pay more attention when needed: Alter the...

The iPhone-remote-controlled "Spirit of Berlin" Dodge Grand Caravan that we posted about just earlier today is pretty wild.

In case you missed, it you'll want to check out the video clip demonstrating almost full vehicle operation, from the much-loved Apple handset. To a soundtrack by Yello, of course.

Then you'll probably also want to recall the scene below in Tomorrow Never Dies, where James Bond uses a special smartphone to drive his BMW 7-Series remotely from the backseat.

When will you be able to buy a new car that can respond remotely? It looks like some remote-controlled vehicle features—not driving, silly—might be relatively common...