Ford drops Windows from next-gen Sync systems in favor of BlackBerry’s QNX

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by Radu Tyrsina 

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Ford drops Windows from next-gen Sync systems in favor of BlackBerry’s QNX

If you drive a newer model Ford, you likely have the Sync in-vehicle communications and entertainment system, which runs Microsoft’s Windows Embedded Automotive. Enjoy it while you can – Ford is reportedly dumping Windows in the next generation Sync systems in favor of BlackBerry’s QNX.

Sync, powered by Windows, has been providing seven million vehicles with the ability to have hands-free phone calls, music control, and perform other in-car functions with the use of voice commands. Unfortunately, this has resulted in glitches.  Ford has reported malfunctioning tech systems and touch screens, and improvements have felt short over the years.

Ford is now looking towards BlackBerry’s QNX, which happens to be much cheaper than Windows. In fact, QNX and Microsoft are the two primarily suppliers of automotive operating system software. Currently, Volkswagen AG’s Audi and BMW utilize BlackBerry’s QNX operating system to power their in-vehicle communication systems. 

Having the Sync system glitch-free is a key selling point for Ford vehicles, as demand for in-vehicle communications and entertainment systems is quite high. In fact, in-vehicle technology is the top selling point for 39% of auto buyers, according to a recent study by Accenture. Ford hopes to turn things around by making the move to BlackBerry’s QNX.

We’ve embedded two videos that showcase the two operating systems in action, in case you are not familiar with either one. Take a look below.

Radu Tyrsina

Radu Tyrsina Shield

Radu Tyrsina has been a Windows fan ever since he got his first PC, a Pentium III (a monster at that time). For most of the kids of his age, the Internet was an amazing way to play and communicate with others, but he was deeply impressed by the flow of information and how easily you can find anything on the web. Prior to founding Windows Report, this particular curiosity about digital content enabled him to grow a number of sites that helped hundreds of millions reach faster the answer they're looking for.