Newly Unveiled Ford Automobile Operating System Takes Inspiration from Android Automotive, Featuring the Cutting-Edge Inclusion of Google Play Store

In late January, Ford introduced its new operating system for in-car displays, called Digital Experience, which is an upgrade from Android Automotive. Ford had signed an agreement with Google back in 2021, and this project is led by Doug Field, the former head of the Apple Car team who moved to Ford in the same year.

The new Digital Experience system offers users a comprehensive set of expected features. It includes a complete suite of Google apps such as Chrome, Google Maps, and Google Play, supporting both app and game downloads. Preloaded popular apps like Spotify, Amazon Prime Videos, and Vivaldi are also included. In terms of voice command functionality, both Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa are available. The system also allows for separate driver profiles with contact information and location-based apps. It supports easy data input with Bluetooth keyboard connectivity and can connect to both Android Auto and CarPlay for seamless integration. Furthermore, the system can update itself via OTA (Over-The-Air) updates.

On the hardware side, the new system boasts a CPU that is five times more powerful, a GPU that is 14 times more powerful, a four-fold increase in RAM, and an eight-fold increase in storage compared to Ford’s current system which utilizes BlackBerry QNX. It also supports 5G connectivity for enhanced connectivity.

This new operating system will be used in Ford and Lincoln vehicles, starting with the 2024 Lincoln Nautilus. This model, which has already been released, features a standout 48-inch display on the front console.

TLDR: Ford has unveiled its new Digital Experience operating system for in-car displays, an upgrade from Android Automotive. It offers a comprehensive set of features, including Google apps, voice command functionality with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, and support for Bluetooth keyboard input, Android Auto, CarPlay, and OTA updates. The hardware boasts significant improvements in CPU, GPU, RAM, and storage. The system will debut in the 2024 Lincoln Nautilus, which has a large 48-inch display.