Garmin Audio vs Ford+Alexa

The free Garmin Audio app puts entertainment control in the palm of your hand. Whether you’re on the move or at the helm, this app gives you quick access to wireless remote control of your compatible JL Audio® or Fusion® stereo via Bluetooth® or Wi-Fi® connectivity (Wi-Fi available on select stereo models only). Enjoy play / pause / skip audio control with source selection, individual zone volume control and the ability to adjust music / stereo settings (including choosing albums, artists and playlists). You will also be able to access over-the-air software updates allowing you to easily keep your compatible stereo up-to-date with the latest features. The app supports Digital Signal Processing (DSP) setup with the Easy Tune feature; where you can select customized speaker, subwoofer, amplifier and environmental profiles to enjoy premium audio that is optimized for your boat, resulting in a superior listening experience. DSP also protects your audio system by adjusting the power output to your system components. Keep a look out for future app updates which may introduce new features and improvements.

Bring Ford+Alexa with You on the Road: Access to Alexa in your Ford is now as easy as connecting your phone, starting the Ford+Alexa app and speaking to Alexa. Even with road noise, Alexa listens and provides you with the same information and access to Skills and features as you can get with an Echo in your home. Alexa’s familiar voice and responses then play through your vehicle’s speakers. You can access thousands of Alexa skills and services that Echo customers already enjoy. Pump yourself up on the way to the gym by saying, “Alexa, play my workout playlist.” Continue the book you were listening to, even during your commute to work. Check whether you have dinner plans on the drive home by asking, “Alexa, what’s on my calendar tonight?” • Alexa Capabilities: You will have access to most the same capabilities as you do from home, including controlling your smart home devices, ordering pizza, checking the weather, getting your favorites sports teams scores, checking and updating your schedule and more. • Navigation: You can ask Alexa for a point of interest (POI) and ask Alexa to navigate to the POI. Alexa will hand off the POI to the onboard navigation when equipped or to your phone to provide you with turn by turn directions. • Entertainment: Using Amazon Music, TuneIn, and iHeartRadio you will be able use Alexa to play music (skip, fast forward, rewind, play, and pause) and even make song purchases. The vehicle’s display will show artist, song, and album art information. SYNC 3 Software Version 2.2 or higher is required. You can check the Software Version on the SYNC 3 touchscreen by pressing: Settings > General > About SYNC. The top line will show the current Software Version (SYNC 3, Software Version: X.X). Customers can upgrade to the current Software Version using automatic home Wi-Fi updates* or a USB download from owner.ford.com. *Wi-Fi updates may not be available for SYNC 3 versions not equipped with navigation.