A recent study by trade association FPI reveals that one in every 3 Americans listen to streaming content, such as music. A huge part of this group is made up of Generation Z and Millennials. Ford believes that such folks need not miss out on their favorite content while on the road, which is why the Blue Oval brand is set to come out with new services that could just revolutionize in-vehicle entertainment.
It begins with an already existing technology: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities. Both systems allow users to easily sync their phone and mobile devices with their vehicle. This makes it equally seamless for folks to enjoy apps that provide live music streaming and the like. Moreover, they can do so while keeping their eyes on the road and hands on the steering wheel.
What’s new at Ford, however, is what passengers can enjoy while on the road. The 2018 Ford Expedition, which is set to go on sale later this year for instance, will offer rear-seat occupants dual 8-inch monitors mounted at the back of the front seat headrests. These can be used to watch movies, as well as live television shows using SlingPlayer. Owners can sync their home’s SlingPlayer account to their Exped’s system for seamless streaming while on the go.
Moreover, the Expedition will also be available with wi-fi hotspot capability, which can connect as many as 10 devices at one time. It can even be used up to a 50-foot distance from the vehicle. It’s virtual rolling wi-fi hotspot.
Of course, HDMI, SD cards, USB, and even DVD players can easily be integrated to the system. This allows users to watch and listen to content from a wide range of sources. And one can even mirror his Android device’s content via MiraCast. Now, there’s no excuse to get bored on the road.
This trend is backed up by a Nielsen mid-year survey that shows downloaded content and streaming music are being used more now—up 15%. Physical album sales, including CDs, on the other hand, are down by some 10%. And HIS Automotive predicts that 46% of cars sold in the US will not have a CD player by the year 2021.
So Ford has a reason to equip its future vehicles with new ways of keeping passengers entertained. If this trend continues, you won’t have any excuse to miss your favorite TV show--EDSA gridlock notwithstanding.
