Tired of In-Car Tablets? Ford and Lincoln Propose a Superior Alternative

Tired of In-Car Tablets? Ford and Lincoln Propose a Superior Alternative

 

Ford's latest infotainment system presents a fresh approach to managing the array of digital features in its vehicles. Introducing the Ford and Lincoln Digital Experience, the automaker aims to address the drawbacks of contemporary in-car technology. Hopefully, our readers won't collectively roll their eyes at the mention of a "Digital Experience" coupled with the presence of two screens. A simultaneous eye roll of such magnitude might have catastrophic consequences, potentially tilting the Earth into a mass extinction event. Let's spare ourselves that fate and instead assess the system's merits.

Initial Impressions The inaugural vehicle featuring this new system is the 2024 Lincoln Nautilus SUV, boasting a 48-inch 4K panoramic display and a more modest 11.1-inch center touchscreen. The underlying hardware boasts improved main processing, enhanced graphics processing, increased memory, and more storage compared to current Sync 4 versions. From our brief encounter with it, the interface demonstrates seamless functionality, with screens and features loading swiftly, responsive touch operation, and clear graphics.

 

While the debut vehicle is the Nautilus, the specifics of which Ford model will pioneer the Digital Experience remain unknown. However, integration into other vehicles is expected to be more streamlined. To ensure consistency across brands, each vehicle engineering team will select hardware components curated by the digital entertainment team, reducing the need for reinvention. While not all vehicles may adopt the Nautilus's expansive display, the software promises an improved experience even with more conventional hardware.

Critical, Supportive, Glanceable The Ford and Lincoln Digital Experience doesn't seek to reduce the data available in vehicles but instead aims to organize it more efficiently. Many automakers have pursued a familiar approach—placing oversized smartphones in cars—which hasn't always yielded optimal results. As technology advances, J.D. Power studies indicate that customer satisfaction with infotainment systems is declining due to increasing complexity.

So, how does a large panoramic display controlled by a secondary touchscreen simplify things? It comes down to execution. The panoramic screen is purely a display, discreetly positioned in the driver's sight line like a head-up display, avoiding the intrusive nature of a giant tablet. Ford categorizes the display into Critical, Supportive, and Glanceable zones. The Critical zone on the left displays real-time vehicle metrics, the Supportive zone features navigation, and the expansive Glanceable zone on the right accommodates customizable widgets for non-essential but relevant information.

Features of the System The Ford and Lincoln Digital Experience is an all-encompassing suite covering nearly every aspect of modern infotainment. Operating on the Android Automotive system with native integration of Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, it also supports wireless phone projection with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. A Wi-Fi hotspot and 5G connectivity enable optimal use of apps from the Google Play store or a paired phone. The system even facilitates video streaming and gaming, such as Ford's version of Asphalt Nitro 2 with a Bluetooth-enabled controller—an ideal pastime during electric vehicle charging.

The system's capabilities are extensive, and delving into every detail might make it seem more complex than it is. However, the standout feature is the thoughtful layout and driver interaction. Ford's latest infotainment system appears to be a significant step toward a software-defined future in a user-friendly manner.

For instance, the ongoing debate between digital and physical controls is addressed by retaining key physical controls in the Nautilus. Climate controls, although digital, are easily accessible in a visible ribbon at the bottom of the touchscreen. Additionally, dedicated buttons on the center console offer quick access to features like max defrost, cameras, drive mode selection, hazard lights, auto start-stop, and parking chime.

Another noteworthy feature is the control for air vents, exclusively managed through the touchscreen but with presets for each vent position, customizable for individual driver profiles. These thoughtful touches demonstrate a conscious effort to simplify tasks.

Closing Thoughts Navigating the information overload of the modern connected world can be overwhelming, and the influx shows no signs of abating. After tackling various digital tasks on our phones in the morning, finding solace in the morning drive can be challenging when faced with a tablet-sized screen in the car. The Ford and Lincoln Digital Experience appears to be a step in the right direction. Driver interactions are streamlined, and the expansive panoramic screen keeps pertinent information within view, reducing the need for constant touchscreen engagement. While further exploration with the Nautilus is needed for an in-depth evaluation, the system shows promise at first glance.