It was just last month when we reported the announcement that Microsoft had taken Ford's SYNC to the next level. It was good news for Ford, and good news to consumers who apparently like the award-winning hands-free communication and entertainment system. Even with $395 price tag, SYNC was selling faster than Hanna Montana tickets at a middle school box office.

Ford isn't the only automaker using the Windows CE 6.0 based Microsoft Auto technology. Before Ford inked their deal, Microsoft had licensed the technology to the Italian automaker Fiat SpA. Now, as Ford's exclusive U.S. rights to the technology are set to end later this year, Microsoft is eager to bring other automakers on board. It shouldn't be a tough sell, as consumers are embracing technology-laden vehicles, and Ford's SYNC has proven to help sell cars.

[Source: Freep]

Microsoft ready to expand beyond Ford SYNC originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 Feb 2008 19:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.