Outside of CarPlay or Android Auto, Ford allows drivers to download apps to run natively like Spotify, Amazon Music, and Audible. Additionally, there is a Vivaldi web browser available that drivers can use while parked. Ford notes that Google Chrome is coming soon. You can also control the apps with a Bluetooth keyboard if you so desire. The infotainment system also allows gaming from Google Play. Video conferencing apps are in the pipeline (all while parked of course). 5G technology powers all of your networking needs and the car can act as a Wi-Fi hotspot.
Ford notes that it is “developing more of the software in-house to deliver a higher velocity of updates and improvements.” In-house development allows the software to be more specific to each vehicle it’s featured on and allows Ford to have much more granular control. It also allows vehicle-centric software to operate separately from entertainment apps. That means you don’t have to wait for an update to your vehicle’s data recording and telemetric system to get an update for Spotify.
