Ford Showcases Cutting-Edge 48-Inch Digital Dashboard, Android Integration

Jan 22, 2024 09:36 PM EST

LINCOLN CAR, CAR WITH MOUNTAIN IN COLORADO — (Photo : PEXELS/NARS AI)

Ford has embraced a fresh approach in managing the multitude of digital features within its vehicles, introducing an innovative digital driving experience for Ford and Lincoln car brands. This major shift involves consolidating the infotainment system and the instrument cluster into a unified computing module, leveraging Android and Google technology. Interestingly, this integration also extends its compatibility to include Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa.

Ford Presents: 48-Inch Digital Dashboard, Android Integration

Ford continues its quest to maximize technology utilization within its lineup. This marks a significant advancement in the convergence of automobiles with the interconnected world. Ford and Lincoln have recently outlined their digital development roadmap, with a strong emphasis on screens and software, reinforcing the notion that vehicles are becoming seamlessly integrated extensions of people's connected lives.

As shared on latest updates, in 2024, the Lincoln Nautilus will feature the addition of a larger, expansive screen, with plans for implementing this enhancement in subsequent models as well. Notably, these upgraded models will continue to provide support for both CarPlay and Android Auto.
The extensive 48-inch digital dashboard introduced by Ford represents a substantial infusion of Android technology within a single vehicle.

Moreover, as detailed by The Verge, Ford's incorporation of a 48-inch digital dashboard with Android integration, particularly in the upcoming 2024 Lincoln Nautilus with its supersized screen, is noteworthy. This technology is rooted in the Android Automotive operating system, ensuring the presence of native iterations of essential Google applications such as Maps and Assistant.

The visual aspect is equally impressive, boasting visually appealing graphics driven by the formidable Epic's Unreal Engine. Moreover, Ford has affirmed its commitment to providing support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, mirroring its stance in contrast to competitors like General Motors, as it remains committed to unrestricted access to these widely popular phone-mirroring services.

Ford Digital Experience

As shared in Android Authority, Meanwhile, the introduction of Ford's new digital experience will debut initially in the upcoming 2024 Lincoln Nautilus, with plans for subsequent integration into various Ford and Lincoln vehicle models in the future.

To access the full range of functionalities, drivers can anticipate a monthly subscription fee associated with the Ford or Lincoln Premium Connectivity plan, providing essential 5G connectivity.

The centerpiece of this innovation is the impressive 48-inch panoramic display, combining crucial vehicle dashboard metrics, seamless navigation, and easily accessible widgets. Notably, Ford's digital experience heavily relies on the Google Play Store, fostering partnerships with entities like Asphalt Nitro (with Bluetooth controller compatibility) and select video conferencing applications.

Furthermore, this integration allows drivers to conduct quick work calls, with video feeds accessible during stationary moments, shifting to audio-only mode when the vehicle is in motion. Ford actively collaborates with developers to optimize apps for the connected driving experience, ensuring their seamless operation on the console and panoramic display.

According to MotorTrends' initial assessment, the inaugural vehicle showcasing the innovative system is the 2024 Lincoln Nautilus SUV, characterized by its expansive 48-inch 4K panoramic screen, complemented by a smaller 11.1-inch central touchscreen.

Notably, the underlying hardware surpasses its predecessors in terms of main processing power, enhanced graphics processing capabilities, increased memory, and expanded storage capacity compared to current iterations of Sync 4. Preliminary interactions with the system indicate that the interface functions seamlessly, with swift loading times for screens and features, responsive touch controls, and crisp graphics.