Now You’re Talking! We Bring Customers in Europe Amazon Alexa Built-in

Customers in Europe can now access Amazon Alexa through Alexa Built-in, which allows users to ask questions or issue commands directly from inside the vehicle without needing a smartphone. ^{1 2} For example, Alexa Built-in makes it easy for drivers to get their morning news and traffic updates on the way to work – or to remotely manage the temperature at home to help keep energy bills down.

Alexa Built-in is among a number of features being delivered over-the-air via Ford Power-Up software updates for the wide range of vehicles equipped with SYNC 4 and SYNC 4A communication and entertainment systems. ³ These include both the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Ford Mustang Mach-E GT, Focus and Focus ST.
 
Alexa Built-in will also be integrated during production to select vehicles that will be available to customers in Europe this year. These include the Ford Mustang Mach-E, Ford Mustang Mach-E GT and Focus.

Amazon Alexa Built-in
We will offer complimentary connectivity to key Alexa features. ⁴ Designed to be an extension of the Alexa experience at home, Alexa Built-in will enhance the driving experience.
·       Entertainment: drivers can check the weather, ask Alexa to tell a joke or even ask the height of the Eiffel Tower
·       Productivity: drivers can make phone calls, add items to shopping lists and review calendars
·       Vehicle controls: drivers can set the cabin temperature or request navigation to a destination
·       Smart home: drivers can remotely control eligible smart home devices, such as smart thermostats ⁵
 

“We’re thrilled to now offer Alexa to Ford customers in Europe – continuing our mission to deliver personalised, proactive, and intuitive digital experiences that delight drivers and passengers. Voice AI shines in environments where people are focused on other tasks, and this is particularly important in the vehicle. We can’t wait to hear feedback from Ford customers about how Alexa is enriching their drive.”

Dean Miles,

Director of Product and Business Management, Amazon Smart Vehicles

 
Drivers also have the option to access Ford Streaming that enables unlimited audio streaming, as well as news updates and the ability to play games via Alexa. A 90‑day complimentary trial enables drivers to listen to music, podcasts, and audiobooks on Alexa-compatible platforms. ⁶ These include Amazon Music, Audible, Kindle, as well as third party services to which customers may already subscribe. ⁷
 

Twice the fun
The latest Ford Power-Up software updates also bring dual phone pairing to customers so that no one needs to fight over who gets to pair their phone with the SYNC 4 system. Drivers can also quickly switch between the two – perfect for gaining access to both work and personal phones. Dual phone pairing is available on the Ford Mustang Mach-E, Ford Mustang Mach-E GT, Focus and Focus ST, Transit and E-Transit. ⁸
 

Keep cool (or stay warm) more easily
We’ve made it easier to manage the cabin temperature settings via the SYNC screen. Design updates make it easier to see and adjust the cabin temperature.

No reason to be bored
The latest upgrade includes a range of games to keep Mustang Mach-E customers amused when the vehicle is charging or stationary. These include sudoku, jigsaw puzzles, and driving game Lane Change.
 

¹ Seven European markets – Austria, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Spain, and ​the UK. Alexa will only be available in English, French, German, Italian and Spanish in supported markets. An alternate market cannot access Alexa despite being able to use a supported language. Vehicles receiving this Ford Power-Up update include the Ford Mustang Mach‑E, Ford Mustang Mach-E GT, Focus and Focus ST passenger cars.
 
² To use Alexa Built-in, drivers need to activate FordPass Connect  within their vehicle using the FordPass smartphone app. FordPass Connect (optional on select vehicles), the FordPass app, and complimentary Connected Service are required for remote features (see FordPass Terms for details). Connected service and features depend on network availability. Evolving technology/cellular networks/vehicle capability may limit functionality and prevent operation of connected features. Connected service excludes Wi-Fi hotspot. FordPass app, compatible with select smartphone platforms, is available via a download. Message and data rates may apply.  
 
³ Ford guidance is to not drive while distracted or while using handheld devices. Use voice-operated systems when possible. Some features may be locked out while the vehicle is in gear. Not all features available in Ford vehicles are compatible with all phones.
 
⁴ Access to Alexa requires an Amazon account, SYNC 4 or SYNC 4A, FordPass Connect, and complimentary Connected Service activated through the FordPass app (see FordPass Terms for details).
 
⁵ Certain Alexa functionality is dependent on smart home technology, and only works with Amazon Alexa-compatible smart home devices. Additional products and setup may be required.
 
⁶ The one-year eligibility period starts on the date of installation for customers receiving Alexa via Ford Power-Up software update. Where Alexa has been integrated to vehicles during production, the one‑year year eligibility period begins at warranty start date.
 
⁷ Please note that further subscriptions may be required for some features.
 
⁸ If using Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, users will need to disconnect before using this feature.

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