http://blog.caranddriver.com/ford-opens-sync-3-infotainment-api-to-app-developers/
Ford has announced that it will be opening up the all-new Sync 3 platform's API to app developers. What this means is that developers can create apps to work with Sync 3?equipped vehicles? onboard systems, including Sync?s voice-recognition software and touch screen, or adapt current apps not already compatible.
The conduit for this phone-to-Sync communication is an API Ford refers to as ?AppLink,? and it is actually the software that communicates with connected mobile phones? Sync-compatible apps. App creators can download a developer kit from Ford with the frameworks for various on-screen app designs and even simulations for various car scenarios so that developers can test out apps that take advantage of onboard data Ford says includes ?average fuel economy, battery voltage, external temperature, fuel level, safety-belt status, acceleration, driver braking, GPS, speed, tire pressure, vehicle identification number, odometer, and engine rpm.?
Ford?s support for external app development is comprehensive and pretty cool. After all, if you want people to want Sync 3, you might as well give app developers to tools necessary to make desirable digital widgets that work with the system.
