Having launched Sync 2, the latest version of its in-car "infotainment" system at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona, it's understood that Ford Motor Company is set to replace Sync's underlying Microsoft operating system with BlackBerry's QNX alternative.
The move will only take effect in 2016 and, according to reports, Microsoft’s licensing costs as well as a desire for a speedier, more flexible solution, were the main reasons for the move.
Commenting on the speculation surrounding the possibility of dropping the Microsoft OS, a Ford spokesperson told The Irish Times : "We do not discuss details of our work with others or speculate on future products for competitive reasons."
However, sources "briefed on the matter" told Bloomberg that due to in-car technology flaws, Ford had decided upon the move. BlackBerry and Microsoft representatives failed to comment on the matter when contacted by The Irish Times .
At present, Ford vehicles with the Sync system on board are said to number 7 million globally, with the software including voice-activation capabilities as well as a number of call, entertainment, navigation and vehicle health check features.
QNX can already be found in vehicles from companies such as Audi, Porsche, BMW, Chrysler, Porsche and Saab. Its importance to BlackBerry as it tries to regain momentum after years of decline in the smartphone market, has been emphasised by the company's new CEO, John Chen.
