Five Reasons Ford’s Switch from Microsoft to Blackberry QNX is a Good Thing

Connected Car Consortium:

Some people don’t see the need for an infotainment system in the car, especially when there’s such a powerful little computer in everyone’s pocket in the form of a smartphone. The dream is to mirror the function of your smart-phone on your car’s main display. That dream is in the process of being realized, thanks to something called the Car Connectivity Consortium (CCC) and MirrorLink.  The CCC is a group dedicated to bringing a global standard for phone-centric car connectivity.

MirrorLink is the first technology standard created that can control a smartphone from a car’s steering wheel or dashboard buttons and screens. The technology leverages a vehicle’s controls and displays to give consumers access to their smartphone apps while driving, allowing them to be connected and responsible at the same time. Honda currently offers this kind of connectivity in the new 2014 Honda Civic. By using their iPhones, car buyers don’t have to opt up to get a dedicated navigation package for their new compact car.

Many automakers are part of the CCC, including GM, Hyundai, Volkswagen, Volvo, Mazda, Fiat, Renault and Honda. One name not on the list is Ford. However, quite a few tech-companies are part of the CCC as well, including QNX. This means that vehicles using QNX (including future Ford vehicles) could be capable of MirrorLink functionality as well, giving drivers access to their smart-phone while on the road.