Ford’s hands-free media and infotainment system, SYNC, will now be even more vast. Added to the already numerous features is live Operator Assist and will be made standard and on all SYNC systems. The system connects a Ford driver with a real person when needed as live operators have been implemented for assistance. “This isn’t just about offering customers a back-up option to the services we have already. This is about giving customers a variety of choices when it comes to how they would like to receive information,” said Doug VanDagens, director, Ford Connected Services Solutions Organization.
On the rare occurence where the already impressive, Cloud-based voice activated SYNC was unable to find a location or understand a request, an operator can be called upon. In most cases, an option will automatically be prompted or by simply saying, “operator.” During their session, an operator can supply a driver with a direct phone call to a location or offer such services as having a text message sent to their phone. “Our operators were told by customers that they were very happy and surprised to have an option for additional help, especially when they realized it was a free service. They expected Ford to charge for these services like our competitors do,” said David Gersabeck, product manager, SYNC Services.
“Free” is tricky as first time SYNC owners are allowed 60 complementary sessions with an operator. After that, subscriptions and individual sessions can be further purchased.
Source: Ford
