Ford Sync Applink and Life360 help drivers stay connected to family

Ford Motor Company and Life360 will help keep family members in touch while commuting with the introduction of the SYNC® AppLink-enabled Life360 app with all-new Drive Mode feature

Once the Life360 app is connected through available Ford SYNC AppLink, Drive Mode automatically alerts the driver’s loved ones that he or she is behind the wheel to encourage them not to text the person until they receive a follow-up alert stating the driver is no longer operating the vehicle

“Responsible driving habits are top priorities at Ford Motor Company, and we are pleased to be working with Life360 to help reduce driver distractions,” said Julius Marchwicki, Ford Connected Services Product manager. “With the integration of Life360 Drive Mode, we are helping to keep drivers’ attention on the road by letting their loved ones know that they are behind the wheel, encouraging family members and friends to hold off on sending texts.”

The AppLink-enabled Life360 app goes to work when the driver connects his or her smartphone to Ford SYNC via Bluetooth. The connection tells the app when the smartphone is in the car, which prompts the Drive Mode feature to send a message to everyone in the driver’s Life360 circle suggesting they not text the driver. A follow-up message is sent once the driver arrives at his or her destination and turns off the car.

Drivers can also check the latest location of family members through the SYNC display or with voice commands. Ford and Life360 will demonstrate the app at the 2015 International CES in Las Vegas, Jan. 6-9. Drive Mode will be available initially for Android phones by spring.

“We are thrilled to be working with Ford to take on such an important issue and help reduce texting and driving,” said Chris Hulls, co-founder and CEO, Life360. “Keeping families connected is one of our core tenets, and we’re proud our technology can also help play a key role in promoting distraction-free driving.”

Ford SYNC allows drivers to make and receive calls, and operate other features hands-free using voice commands. Ford SYNC AppLink allows customers to connect their smartphone to their vehicle and control their compatible apps using voice commands or buttons on the vehicle display.

Life360 is a free smartphone app that helps family members and close friends stay in touch throughout their busy day. Users can see where their circle of family and friends are on a private map, stay connected through one-to-one or group messages, and get help in an emergency.