Waze, a smart route-navigation service available for both Android and Apple smartphone users, is one of the most popular phone applications out there. It already had millions of users when Google purchased the company in 2013, and it has only grown in popularity since then. Now Ford is making Waze even simpler to use by integrating compatibility straight into its Sync 3 infotainment system. Unfortunately, a cord is still required.
Waze optimizes route times by navigating users around traffic and alerts them of accidents and speed traps. Until recently, those who preferred it over Google or Apple Maps were limited to using it on their smartphones. That’s no longer the case. Android Auto changed the game when it added Waze into its plug-in infotainment platform, and SmartDeviceLink has led the open-source charge for mirroring smartphone applications on automotive infotainment systems. The SmartDeviceLink developer announcement opened the door for Ford, which announced at CES 2018 in Las Vegas that it is getting in on the fun. Ford claims it is the first major manufacturer to integrate Waze straight into its own native infotainment system. Once a phone with Waze is plugged in, it will automatically display on the Ford Sync 3?equipped screen with full functionality, including voice commands and touchscreen controls. The feature will become available “in the coming weeks” on all 2018 Ford models, the automaker said, while older Ford vehicles equipped wit...