Infotainment systems have greatly evolved over the past few years to handle navigation, internet access, climate control, communication and many other functions. But if you thought you've seen it all, guess again. Ford is currently exploring ways to connect medical devices to SYNC.
Basically, the automaker wants to add medical monitoring features to its voice-activated, in-car communication system so drivers with disorders such as diabetes, asthma or allergies may avoid attacks that could lead to crashes.
Ford claims the technology may help diabetics monitor glucose levels on a dashboard screen or over the audio system and avoid lightheadedness, blurry vision or other symptoms that may be dangerous while driving.
Wait, there's more. The Blue Oval is also researching smartphone applications that could connect to SYNC and provide allergy alerts that give current pollen levels and other information for people with asthma, colds and coughs, and ultraviolet sensitivity.
Don't expect your future Ford vehicle to replace your personal doctor, however.
"Ford's approach […] is not about trying to take on the role of health-care or medical provider, we're a car company," Gary Strumolo, Ford's manager of interiors, infotainment and health and wellness research, said in a statement.
Rather, Ford is trying to "create a secondary alert system and alternate outlet for real-time patient coaching".
According to a survey by Harris Interactive and CTIA-The Wireless Association, about 78 percent of U.S. consumers are interested in mobile health solutions.
Source: Automotive News
Basically, the automaker wants to add medical monitoring features to its voice-activated, in-car communication system so drivers with disorders such as diabetes, asthma or allergies may avoid attacks that could lead to crashes.
Ford claims the technology may help diabetics monitor glucose levels on a dashboard screen or over the audio system and avoid lightheadedness, blurry vision or other symptoms that may be dangerous while driving.
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| Photo: Ford |
Wait, there's more. The Blue Oval is also researching smartphone applications that could connect to SYNC and provide allergy alerts that give current pollen levels and other information for people with asthma, colds and coughs, and ultraviolet sensitivity.
Don't expect your future Ford vehicle to replace your personal doctor, however.
"Ford's approach […] is not about trying to take on the role of health-care or medical provider, we're a car company," Gary Strumolo, Ford's manager of interiors, infotainment and health and wellness research, said in a statement.
Rather, Ford is trying to "create a secondary alert system and alternate outlet for real-time patient coaching".
According to a survey by Harris Interactive and CTIA-The Wireless Association, about 78 percent of U.S. consumers are interested in mobile health solutions.
Source: Automotive News