Ford Motor Company announced it will be leaving Microsoft in favor of Blackberry's technology and what it can do for Fords in-car system.
Ford is currently developing its cars' Sync infotainment systems, which allows drivers to control their smartphones and other devices by voice in the car, according to USA Today. Ford looks to use Blackberry's QNX automotive unit for the system.
Two people spoke about Ford's preference of Blackberry's technology over Windows, Microsoft's operating system, according to Economic Times. The two sources chose to remain anonymous due to Ford's plans still being private.
Spokeswoman for Ford, Susannah Wesley, declined to comment on Ford's relationship with Microsoft, Economic Times reported.
"Ford works with a variety of partners and suppliers to develop and continuously improve our in-car connectivity systems for customers," Wesley said. "We do not discuss details of our work with others or speculate on future products for competitive reasons."
Since Blackberry purchased QNX in 2010, QNX has been a successful tool for the smartphone company, according to The Globe And Mail. Many other car manufacturers use QNX-based systems in their cars.
Kaan Yigit, president of Solutions Research Group in Toronto, ON, stated his thoughts on the success the deal with Ford could provide for Blackberry, The Globe And Mail reported.
"If the Ford item is true, and imagining it's a multiyear deal, that's good news obviously, a recurring source of revenue," Yigit said. "But it's a software deal and I don't know what it would amount to in relative [dollar] terms so it's hard to judge."
Ford's Sync and MyFord Touch, Ford's touch-screen and voice system upgrade, have received complaints from customers about small screen icons, confusing view options, understanding voice command and other issues, according to USA Today .
Ford's choice to use QNX gives the motor company a chance to save money over the costs for Ford's licensing agreement with Microsoft, USA Today reported. The switch will also give Sync more speed and flexibility, which will help Sync's next generation in the in-car infotainment market.
