CES 2016
The mother of all trade shows, the Consumer Electronics Show takes over Vegas for the first week of January. Some major phones are usually announced, and we'll have hands-on reports for each one. This year, we expect big news from Huawei, Samsung, Sony, and Blu. Plus we'll have hands-on details of other interesting apps, services, and accessories in the world of phones.
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Samsung to Make Gear S2 Compatible with iPhone
Samsung said it plans to add support for the Apple iPhone to the Gear S2 smartwatch later this year. The S2, which runs Tizen, is already compatible with Android handsets. Samsung didn't say what features will make the jump from Android to iOS, though it may drop a few. In the past, Samsung has restricted its smartwatch compatibility to its own handsets. Bringing iOS support to the S2 is an important change of direction for Samsung.
Fiat Chrysler to Support Android Auto, CarPlay
Fiat Chrysler today followed Ford in voicing support for Google's Android Auto and Apple's CarPlay interfaces. The fourth generation of Fiat Chrysler's Uconnect platform will add the smartphone-linking software to select 2016 models. Both Android Auto and CarPlay allow smartphones to push certain content to the in-dash infotainment center for accessing maps, music, messaging, and calling features. Fiat Chrysler did not say which cars will gain the latest Uconnect platform, nor exactly when it will begin the rollout.
Ford Embraces CarPlay and Android Auto
Ford today announced an update to its Sync 3 in-car infotainment system, to support Apple CarPlay and Google's Android Auto. All 2017 Ford models with Sync 3 will support CarPlay and Android Auto, and an update will be offered for 2016 models with Sync 3. Ford has previously supported Apple's Siri Eyes-Free for integrated Siri voice control with iPhones. The new support brings a car-oriented visual interface to the dash display, powered by the phone. The update to Sync 3 also brings LTE connectivity, allowing owners to remotely start and unlock their car from their smartphone. Ford joins Audi, Volkswagen, Kia, GM, Hyundai, Nissan, Volvo, Subaru, and Honda in supporting both CarPlay and Android Auto.
