Sync IV (2022) vs Android Google (2023)

[Sdctcher]

Yesterday we found out that Ford has delayed the Infotainment System change from Sync IV to Android Google. The 2022 Ford Lightning will have Sync but 2023 will be outfitted with the new system. And, the new system cannot be retrofitted to the 2022 Lightning.

Does it matter?

What are we giving up by buying a 2022 Lightning with the old system?

I am used to the Sync system in my other Fords and seldom use new "smart features" such as voice commands, so it will make little difference to me.

But will it make a difference in resale value with an older, obsolete information system?

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[Beans]

Although I hate having old tech, I’m not too concerned. For most looking at a used vehicle, the infotainment system isn’t a focal point. I think it will have little impact on resale value.

The tax break is much more important to me. I’m considering placing another reservation as soon as the banks open again, thinking my truck will have not lost much value allowing me to upgrade at a fairly low cost.

 

[GoGoGadgetTruck]

Yesterday we found out that Ford has delayed the Infotainment System change from Sync IV to Android Google. The 2022 Ford Lightning will have Sync but 2023 will be outfitted with the new system. And, the new system cannot be retrofitted to the 2022 Lightning.

Does it matter?

What are we giving up by buying a 2022 Lightning with the old system?

I am used to the Sync system in my other Fords and seldom use new "smart features" such as voice commands, so it will make little difference to me.

But will it make a difference in resale value with an older, obsolete information system?

You're asking two reasonable questions that we don't know really know the answers to right now.

What's being given up is the ecosystem - Android as a car infotainment system offers a wide range of applications and a strong developer setup, and a faster update turnaround time.

As far as resale value goes, Sync 3 is still shipping on many new Ford vehicles today (the Maverick has it, current Lincolns have it, etc.) and folks don't seem too concerned. The general consensus seems to be "as long as I have CarPlay / Android Auto, I don't care" which is probably fair as far as it goes. I'd be more concerned about the resale value of the vehicle platform once the next generation comes out.

 

[pstansel]

I do wonder about it... only thing I don't love about being one of the first

 

[Kev12345]

Seems weird that it wouldn't be upgradable? Display and brain on any car moving forward should be able to be swapped for newer, faster versions otherwise a 5 year old car is going to feel 20 years old.

 

[F150ROD]

I honestly don’t think we are losing anything, not even the ability to receive updates if they choose to activate Entertainment ala Tesla. At some point though we will, and that’s ok with me. As long as Apple Car Play is updated.

 

[gorwell]

It was news to me that Ford was even working on an Android system.

All lighting materials have always been for Sync4(or 4a).

So, nothing really changes.

The Android system would be better without a doubt. But, a pretty minor consideration for a car purchase. Most of use don't use Ford's native system anyways. I guess for those who use Android Auto already, there may not be a reason to use it anymore (assuming you subscribe to the newOS as I assume after the first few years, it would be a monthly fee). Those w/ Apple wouldn't really notice a change.

Ford has really emphasized OTA for Sync4, so this shouldn't change.

Something else to note, I don't think this change would really impact Core vehicle changes, like some improved range or driving dynamics. It would just impact user-interface changes.

 

[RonTCat]

Yesterday we found out that Ford has delayed the Infotainment System change from Sync IV to Android Google. The 2022 Ford Lightning will have Sync but 2023 will be outfitted with the new system. And, the new system cannot be retrofitted to the 2022 Lightning.

Does it matter?

What are we giving up by buying a 2022 Lightning with the old system?

I am used to the Sync system in my other Fords and seldom use new "smart features" such as voice commands, so it will make little difference to me.

But will it make a difference in resale value with an older, obsolete information system?

Sync4a will sit on top of either system, QNX or Android Automotive. I doubt anyone will even be able to tell the difference. Maybe 5-7 years out they might diverge a bit.

 

[REDHORSECA]

Wireless CarPlay is all I need, and if they keep it updated.

 

[PV2EV]

Native Google Maps with charging info is what may be the differentiator. That may take a few years however. Also, Android is solid, especially when considering touch screen use, and would assume AA will be as well.

 

[jazzmanmonty]

Aside from the built-in aesthetic, I wouldn't care too much about it guys. I'm sure the Android UI will mimic Android Auto, and we're supposed to have wireless android auto anyway in the '22. I use android auto all the time in my Lincoln. It's nicer too off your phone cuz its hac- i mean "customizable"

 

[CoyoteJim]

If they sell enough QNX based systems there will always be a third party solution down the line. Case in point:
https://fordauthority.com/2021/05/large-2013-2020-ford-fusion-infotainment-screen-modernizes-sedan/

 

[p52Ranch]

I'm excited to upgrade to power windows, power door locks and a remote key fob. Every truck I've owned (including my 2014 Super Duty) have all been hand crank windows and manual door locks.

I'm not sure how well I'll get along with the Lightning newfangled technology.

 

[GoGoGadgetTruck]

Aside from the built-in aesthetic, I wouldn't care too much about it guys. I'm sure the Android UI will mimic Android Auto, and we're supposed to have wireless android auto anyway in the '22. I use android auto all the time in my Lincoln. It's nicer too off your phone cuz its hac- i mean "customizable"

the Polestar UI is very different than Android Auto. Automakers have full control over that layer of the OS stack.

https://arstechnica.com/cars/2021/0...utomotive is skinnable,a Samsung Galaxy phone

 

[ericpullen]

I know this is an older thread, but I was curious if anyone has seen info related to what processor type they are using for Sync 4/4a? Also, is the OS still based on QNX like it was for Sync3 or is it something else?

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