Ford To Partner With Google All Models To Have Android System Starting From 2023

• New partnership, to be called Team Upshift, will utilise various Google tech to help enhance its operations and implement personalised consumer services.

• Android-based infotainment system to get in-built Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Play alongside over-the-air updates.

• The India-spec EcoSport and Endeavour will eventually have their SYNC infotainment systems replaced once the partnership starts in 2023.

Future models will have more Google tech at their disposal as the carmaker has entered into a six-year strategic partnership with the tech giant for the further development of its infotainment and connected car technology. From 2023, all Ford models will incorporate an Android-based infotainment system.

Ford Eneavour infotainment system used for representational purposes

Under this new partnership, called Team Upshift, Ford will utilise Google Cloud's artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data analytics technology. The idea is to implement personalised consumer experiences, enhance its product development and manufacturing operations, and provide vehicle owners with real-time notices for scheduled servicing or trade-in offers.

As for the Android OS making its way to Ford infotainment systems, it will have built-in Google apps such as the voice command-operated Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Play. Aside from over-the-air updates, the new infotainment systems will also enable Ford and third-party developers to build apps for more personalisation.

How will this affect the Ford models back home? Well, the SYNC infotainment systems present in the will eventually be replaced once the partnership kicks off in 2023. Ford is, however, yet to reveal a timeline for the incorporation of the Android-based infotainment system in its current lineup.